CVE-2013-7466 in Simple Machines Forum
Summary
by MITRE
Simple Machines Forum (SMF) 2.0.4 allows local file inclusion, with resultant remote code execution, in install.php via ../ directory traversal in the db_type parameter if install.php remains present after installation.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/29/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2013-7466 affects Simple Machines Forum version 2.0.4 and represents a critical local file inclusion flaw that can be exploited to achieve remote code execution. This vulnerability specifically targets the install.php script which, when left accessible after the initial installation process, creates a dangerous attack surface. The flaw manifests through improper input validation of the db_type parameter, which accepts directory traversal sequences such as ../ that allow attackers to navigate the file system and include arbitrary local files. This vulnerability directly maps to CWE-22, which describes improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as directory traversal or path traversal attacks. The security implications are severe because the vulnerability enables attackers to execute arbitrary code on the target system, potentially leading to complete system compromise.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability requires an attacker to make a request to the install.php script with a specially crafted db_type parameter that includes directory traversal sequences. When the application processes this parameter without proper sanitization, it allows the inclusion of local files that should not be accessible through the web interface. The persistence of the install.php file after installation creates an ongoing risk, as this file typically contains sensitive configuration and database connection information. Attackers can leverage this to include system files or other sensitive resources that may contain credentials, configuration details, or other exploitable code. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it combines multiple attack vectors, allowing for both local file inclusion and subsequent remote code execution, which aligns with the ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter and T1021.004 for remote services.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution to encompass complete system compromise and data exfiltration capabilities. Organizations running affected versions of SMF face significant risks including unauthorized access to database credentials, potential privilege escalation, and the ability to establish persistent backdoors on the affected systems. The vulnerability's persistence through the installation process means that even properly configured systems remain at risk as long as the install.php file remains accessible. This creates a particularly challenging mitigation scenario since simply updating the software does not address the immediate risk if the file remains present on the system. The vulnerability affects web applications that rely on the SMF platform and demonstrates the critical importance of proper file access controls and the removal of installation scripts post-deployment. Security best practices recommend immediate file removal after installation and proper access controls to prevent unauthorized access to administrative scripts, which aligns with the ATT&CK technique T1548.001 for abuse of privileges and T1071.004 for application layer protocols. Organizations should implement comprehensive monitoring for unauthorized file access attempts and ensure that all installation artifacts are properly secured or removed to prevent exploitation of this and similar vulnerabilities.