CVE-2018-9174 in DeDeCMS
Summary
by MITRE
sys_verifies.php in DedeCMS 5.7 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via the refiles array parameter, because the contents of modifytmp.inc are under an attacker's control.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/20/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-9174 resides within the sys_verifies.php component of DedeCMS version 5.7, representing a critical remote code execution flaw that enables attackers to inject and execute arbitrary PHP code on affected systems. This vulnerability specifically targets the refiles array parameter, which serves as an entry point for malicious input manipulation. The core technical weakness stems from insufficient input validation and sanitization mechanisms that fail to properly filter user-supplied data before processing, creating a direct path for code injection attacks. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code without requiring authentication or prior access to the system, making it highly exploitable in automated attack scenarios.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with complete control over the affected web server running DedeCMS. The flaw operates through a chain of insecure data handling where the modifytmp.inc file contents are directly influenced by attacker-controlled input, bypassing normal security checks and validation procedures. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-94, which describes improper validation of data flow in the context of code execution, and represents a classic example of a code injection vulnerability that enables privilege escalation and system compromise. Attackers can leverage this flaw to upload malicious files, establish persistent backdoors, or escalate their access to perform further reconnaissance and lateral movement within the network infrastructure.
Security professionals should note that this vulnerability demonstrates a failure in input validation controls and proper parameter sanitization within the CMS framework. The attack vector specifically targets the refiles array parameter, which suggests that the application fails to properly validate or sanitize array inputs before processing them through the sys_verifies.php component. This weakness creates a pathway for attackers to manipulate the application's behavior and execute malicious code with the privileges of the web server process. Organizations utilizing DedeCMS 5.7 should implement immediate mitigations including input validation patches, parameter sanitization, and access control restrictions to prevent unauthorized code execution. The vulnerability also relates to ATT&CK technique T1059.007, which covers the execution of code through PHP, and highlights the importance of proper input validation and secure coding practices in preventing remote code execution attacks. System administrators must prioritize patching this vulnerability and implementing network segmentation to limit potential damage from successful exploitation attempts.