CVE-2014-7146 in MantisBT
Summary
by MITRE
The XmlImportExport plugin in MantisBT 1.2.17 and earlier allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a crafted (1) description field or (2) issuelink attribute in an XML file, which is not properly handled when executing the preg_replace function with the e modifier.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/30/2024
The XmlImportExport plugin in MantisBT versions 1.2.17 and earlier contains a critical remote code execution vulnerability that stems from improper input validation and unsafe string processing techniques. This vulnerability exists in the handling of XML data during import operations, specifically when processing the description field or issuelink attribute within XML files. The flaw occurs because the application employs the preg_replace function with the e modifier, which allows for arbitrary code execution when malicious input is processed through this function. The e modifier in preg_replace evaluates the replacement string as PHP code, creating a direct pathway for attackers to inject and execute arbitrary PHP commands on the target system. This vulnerability represents a classic example of unsafe input handling and improper sanitization of user-supplied data, which falls under the CWE-94 category of Code Injection.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability requires an attacker to craft a malicious XML file containing specially formatted description or issuelink attributes that, when processed by the XmlImportExport plugin, trigger the vulnerable preg_replace function with the e modifier. When the application imports this XML file, the malicious code embedded within the description or issuelink fields gets executed in the context of the web server process. This creates a remote code execution scenario where attackers can potentially gain full control over the affected MantisBT instance, execute system commands, access sensitive data, or use the compromised system as a pivot point for further attacks within the network. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it allows attackers to execute code without requiring authentication, making it an attractive target for automated exploitation.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it can lead to complete system compromise and data breaches. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to establish persistent access, escalate privileges, or use the compromised system to launch attacks against other systems within the same network infrastructure. The vulnerability also affects the integrity and confidentiality of the entire MantisBT deployment, as any data stored within the system becomes potentially accessible to unauthorized parties. This type of vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for Command and Scripting Interpreter: PowerShell and similar techniques, as it allows for arbitrary code execution through legitimate system interfaces. Organizations running affected versions of MantisBT are at significant risk of unauthorized access and potential data loss, as the vulnerability can be exploited remotely without any prior authentication or privileged access.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability include immediate patching of the MantisBT application to version 1.2.18 or later, which contains the necessary fixes to address the unsafe preg_replace usage. Organizations should also implement proper input validation and sanitization measures for all XML imports, particularly focusing on removing or escaping the e modifier from preg_replace calls. Network-level protections such as web application firewalls can provide additional defense-in-depth, though they are not a substitute for proper code fixes. Security monitoring should be enhanced to detect unusual XML import activities or patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of avoiding deprecated or dangerous PHP functions like preg_replace with the e modifier, which should be replaced with safer alternatives such as preg_replace_callback or direct string manipulation functions. Organizations should also conduct thorough security reviews of all plugins and extensions to ensure similar vulnerabilities are not present in other components of their software ecosystem, as this type of issue is common in legacy applications that have not been properly updated for modern security standards.