Description Preview
A code injection vulnerability (CWE-94) exists in phpwcms version 1.9.25 that allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code through the database user field during the installation process. This vulnerability could lead to complete system compromise if successfully exploited.
Overview
phpwcms is a content management system written in PHP. In version 1.9.25, the installation process contains a critical security flaw where user input from the database configuration fields is not properly sanitized before being used. Specifically, the DB user field can be manipulated to include malicious PHP code that will be executed on the server. An attacker who can access the installation page can exploit this vulnerability to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the web server user, potentially leading to full system compromise.
Remediation
- Upgrade to a patched version of phpwcms if available
- If upgrading is not immediately possible, consider the following temporary measures:
- Restrict access to the installation directory
- Complete the installation process in a secure environment and then deploy to production
- Monitor system logs for suspicious activities
- Implement web application firewall rules to block potential exploitation attempts
- After installation, ensure the installation directory is removed or properly secured
- Follow security best practices for PHP applications, including input validation and proper configuration of PHP settings
References
- GitHub Issue and Patch: https://github.com/slackero/phpwcms/issues/310
- CWE-94: Improper Control of Generation of Code ('Code Injection'): https://cwe.mitre.org/data/definitions/94.html
- OWASP Code Injection Prevention: https://owasp.org/www-community/attacks/Code_Injection
Industry ExposureMost to leastThis section illustrates the prevalence of a specific Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVE) across various industries based on customer reports. The ranking displays industries from the most to least affected by this particular vulnerability, offering valuable insight into where this CVE has been most frequently observed. This information can help organizations within these sectors prioritize their security efforts, understand their relative risk exposure compared to their peers, and focus remediation strategies where they are most needed. By understanding the industry-specific impact, organizations can make more informed decisions regarding patching, resource allocation, and overall risk management related to this CVE.
This section illustrates the prevalence of a specific Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVE) across various industries based on customer reports. The ranking displays industries from the most to least affected by this particular vulnerability, offering valuable insight into where this CVE has been most frequently observed. This information can help organizations within these sectors prioritize their security efforts, understand their relative risk exposure compared to their peers, and focus remediation strategies where they are most needed. By understanding the industry-specific impact, organizations can make more informed decisions regarding patching, resource allocation, and overall risk management related to this CVE.
- Accommodation & Food ServicesAccommodation & Food Services
- Administrative, Support, Waste Management & Remediation ServicesAdministrative, Support, Waste Management & Remediation Services
- Agriculture, Forestry Fishing & HuntingAgriculture, Forestry Fishing & Hunting
- Arts, Entertainment & RecreationArts, Entertainment & Recreation
- ConstructionConstruction
- Educational ServicesEducational Services
- Finance and InsuranceFinance and Insurance
- Health Care & Social AssistanceHealth Care & Social Assistance
- InformationInformation
- Management of Companies & EnterprisesManagement of Companies & Enterprises
- ManufacturingManufacturing
- MiningMining
- Other Services (except Public Administration)Other Services (except Public Administration)
- Professional, Scientific, & Technical ServicesProfessional, Scientific, & Technical Services
- Public AdministrationPublic Administration
- Real Estate Rental & LeasingReal Estate Rental & Leasing
- Retail TradeRetail Trade
- Transportation & WarehousingTransportation & Warehousing
- UtilitiesUtilities
- Wholesale TradeWholesale Trade