CVE-2017-11167 in FineCMS
Summary
by MITRE
FineCMS 2.1.0 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code by using a URL Manager "Add Site" action to enter this code after a ', sequence in a domain name, as demonstrated by the ',phpinfo() input value.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/25/2019
CVE-2017-11167 represents a critical remote code execution vulnerability affecting FineCMS version 2.1.0 that stems from improper input validation and sanitization within the URL Manager component. This vulnerability specifically manifests when an attacker exploits the "Add Site" functionality by injecting malicious PHP code into the domain name field, utilizing a comma followed by a sequence as a delimiter for code execution. The flaw resides in the application's failure to properly sanitize user-supplied input, creating a path for arbitrary code injection that can be executed within the context of the web server. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-94, which addresses "Improper Control of Generation of Code" and falls into the broader category of code injection flaws that enable attackers to execute malicious commands on the target system. This issue directly maps to ATT&CK technique T1190, "Exploit Public-Facing Application," as it allows remote exploitation of a web application through a vulnerable input field.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs when the application processes the domain name input during the site addition process without adequate validation or sanitization. When an attacker submits a malicious input such as ',phpinfo(), the application fails to properly escape or filter the comma character and subsequent PHP code, allowing the web server to interpret and execute the injected PHP commands. This represents a classic case of command injection where the application's input handling mechanism becomes a vector for code execution. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it operates within the web application's administrative interface, potentially allowing attackers to escalate privileges and gain full control over the affected system. The impact extends beyond simple code execution to include potential data breaches, system compromise, and lateral movement within network environments where the vulnerable application resides.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-11167 is severe and multifaceted, as it provides remote attackers with unrestricted access to execute arbitrary PHP code on the vulnerable system. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to perform reconnaissance activities including executing phpinfo() to gather system information, uploading malicious files, establishing backdoors, or conducting further attacks against the network infrastructure. The vulnerability affects the integrity and confidentiality of the web application and underlying system, potentially leading to complete system compromise and data exfiltration. Organizations using FineCMS 2.1.0 are at significant risk of unauthorized access, as the vulnerability does not require authentication to exploit and can be triggered through standard web browser interactions. The attack surface is particularly concerning in environments where the application is exposed to untrusted networks or where administrators may unknowingly add malicious sites through the vulnerable interface. Security teams should consider this vulnerability as a high-priority threat requiring immediate remediation to prevent potential breaches and maintain system integrity.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-11167 must address both immediate remediation and long-term security hardening measures. The primary solution involves upgrading to a patched version of FineCMS that properly sanitizes user input and implements proper input validation for all administrative functions. Organizations should also implement input filtering mechanisms that prevent special characters such as commas, semicolons, and other code delimiters from being processed as executable content. Network-level protections including web application firewalls and intrusion prevention systems can provide additional layers of defense against exploitation attempts. Regular security audits and input validation testing should be implemented to identify similar vulnerabilities in other application components. The vulnerability highlights the importance of secure coding practices and input validation, emphasizing the need for comprehensive security testing throughout the software development lifecycle. Organizations should also establish robust monitoring and incident response procedures to detect and respond to potential exploitation attempts, as early detection can significantly reduce the impact of such vulnerabilities on system security and business operations.