CVE-2019-9002 in Pixeline Bugs
Summary
by MITRE
An issue was discovered in Tiny Issue 1.3.1 and pixeline Bugs through 1.3.2c. install/config-setup.php allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via the database_host parameter if the installer remains present in its original directory after installation is completed.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/19/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2019-9002 represents a critical remote code execution flaw affecting Tiny Issue versions 1.3.1 and pixeline Bugs through 1.3.2c. This security weakness stems from improper input validation within the installation configuration setup script, specifically the install/config-setup.php file. The flaw occurs when the installer remains in its original directory structure post-installation, creating an exploitable attack vector that allows remote adversaries to inject and execute arbitrary PHP code on the target system. The vulnerability demonstrates a classic improper input validation issue that directly maps to CWE-20, which encompasses weaknesses related to improper handling of input data. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability by manipulating the database_host parameter during the installation process, bypassing normal authentication mechanisms and gaining unauthorized access to the underlying server infrastructure.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends far beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with complete control over the affected system. Once exploited, adversaries can manipulate database connections, access sensitive user data, modify application functionality, and potentially establish persistent backdoors within the environment. The vulnerability's exploitation requires minimal prerequisites since the installer files remain accessible after installation, making it particularly dangerous for organizations that fail to properly secure their deployment environments. This flaw directly aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007, which covers the use of PHP for execution, and T1078.004, which involves legitimate accounts for persistence. The threat landscape is further complicated by the fact that many organizations may not regularly audit their web application installations for leftover temporary or installer files, creating a window of opportunity for attackers to discover and exploit such vulnerabilities.
Organizations affected by this vulnerability should immediately implement comprehensive remediation strategies to address the security gap. The primary mitigation involves ensuring that all installation files, particularly the config-setup.php script, are removed or secured following successful installation completion. This process should be part of standard deployment procedures and include automated checks to verify that no installer components remain accessible. Additionally, implementing proper file permissions and access controls around the application directory structure can significantly reduce the risk of exploitation. Security teams should also consider deploying web application firewalls that can detect and block attempts to access installation scripts, as well as establishing regular security audits that include checking for orphaned installation files. The vulnerability's classification as a remote code execution flaw necessitates immediate attention, as it can be exploited from any location with internet access, making it particularly attractive to automated scanning tools and opportunistic attackers who continuously probe web applications for such weaknesses.