CVE-2015-5644 in MATCHA SNS
Summary
by MITRE
The installer in ICZ MATCHA SNS before 1.3.7 does not properly configure the database, which allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via unspecified vectors.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/18/2018
The CVE-2015-5644 vulnerability affects the ICZ MATCHA SNS software version 1.3.6 and earlier, specifically within its installer component that handles database configuration. This flaw represents a critical security oversight in the application's deployment process where the installer fails to properly secure database connections and configuration parameters. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and configuration management during the software installation phase, creating persistent security weaknesses that can be exploited by remote attackers without authentication. The installer's improper database setup creates a pathway for arbitrary code execution through PHP code injection mechanisms that leverage the insecure database configuration.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through unspecified attack vectors that typically involve manipulating the database connection parameters or configuration files during installation. Attackers can leverage the insecure database configuration to inject malicious PHP code that gets executed within the web server context. This type of vulnerability falls under the CWE-94 category of "Improper Control of Generation of Code" and specifically relates to CWE-74 which addresses "Improper Neutralization of Special Elements in Output Used by a Downstream Component." The vulnerability enables remote code execution because the installer does not properly sanitize or validate database connection details, allowing attackers to inject malicious code that gets processed by the PHP interpreter.
The operational impact of CVE-2015-5644 extends beyond simple code execution to encompass complete system compromise and data breaches. Once an attacker successfully exploits this vulnerability, they gain the ability to execute arbitrary commands on the target system with the privileges of the web server process. This can lead to full system takeover, data exfiltration, and persistence mechanisms being established. The vulnerability affects organizations using the ICZ MATCHA SNS software in production environments where the installer has not been updated to version 1.3.7 or later, creating potential exposure for sensitive data and system integrity. The attack surface is particularly concerning because it occurs during the installation phase, meaning that even systems that appear secure at runtime can be compromised during deployment.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2015-5644 require immediate action to upgrade to ICZ MATCHA SNS version 1.3.7 or later, which contains the necessary fixes for the installer's database configuration process. Organizations should also implement network segmentation and access controls to limit exposure of vulnerable systems during installation phases. Security monitoring should focus on detecting unauthorized installation activities and unusual database connection patterns. The remediation process should include thorough vulnerability scanning of all systems running affected software versions and verification that the database configuration is properly secured. Additionally, organizations should enforce secure installation practices including code signing verification and automated configuration validation to prevent similar vulnerabilities from occurring in other software components. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for "Command and Scripting Interpreter: PHP" and T1021.001 for "Remote Services: Remote Desktop Protocol" when considering the potential for lateral movement after initial compromise.