Source: cve@mitre.org
upgrade.php3 in Phorum 3.0.7 could allow remote attackers to modify certain Phorum database tables via an unknown method.
Phorum 3.0.7 is vulnerable to a remote database modification attack via the upgrade.php3 script. This vulnerability allows attackers to potentially alter or corrupt the Phorum database, leading to data breaches, denial of service, or complete system compromise. Successful exploitation requires no authentication and can be executed remotely.
Step 1: Target Identification: An attacker identifies a Phorum 3.0.7 installation.
Step 2: Vulnerability Discovery: The attacker recognizes the presence of the upgrade.php3 script.
Step 3: Payload Construction: The attacker crafts a malicious payload, likely designed to manipulate database queries or write arbitrary files. The specific payload depends on the exact vulnerability, which is not specified in the CVE. It could be an SQL injection payload, a file upload payload, or a payload designed to overwrite critical configuration files.
Step 4: Payload Delivery: The attacker sends the crafted payload to the upgrade.php3 script, potentially via a POST request or by exploiting a file upload vulnerability.
Step 5: Exploitation: The upgrade.php3 script processes the malicious payload. Due to the lack of input validation, the payload is executed, leading to database modification or other malicious actions.
Step 6: Impact: The attacker successfully modifies the Phorum database, potentially leading to data breaches, denial of service, or complete system compromise.
The vulnerability lies within the upgrade.php3 script of Phorum 3.0.7. The exact nature of the flaw is unspecified in the CVE description, but it allows remote attackers to modify database tables. This suggests a lack of input validation or improper handling of user-supplied data within the upgrade process. The script likely processes data from an external source (e.g., a POST request, a file upload) without adequately sanitizing it. This could lead to SQL injection, arbitrary file write, or other database manipulation attacks. The lack of specific details makes it difficult to pinpoint the exact function or logic flaw, but the core issue is a failure to properly validate and sanitize user-provided input before using it in database queries or file operations. The upgrade script, designed for database schema changes, likely lacks security checks, allowing attackers to inject malicious code or data.
Due to the age and lack of specific details, it's difficult to attribute this vulnerability to specific APT groups. However, any threat actor targeting web applications could potentially exploit this vulnerability. CISA KEV status is likely not applicable due to the age of the vulnerability and the lack of widespread impact. However, any organization running this outdated software is at high risk.
Monitor web server logs for suspicious activity related to upgrade.php3. Look for unusual POST requests or file uploads.
Analyze database logs for unauthorized modifications or suspicious queries, especially those originating from the web server.
Implement intrusion detection systems (IDS) with rules to detect known exploit patterns (if any exist).
Use file integrity monitoring (FIM) to detect unauthorized changes to files related to the Phorum installation.
Network traffic analysis: Look for unusual traffic patterns to the server, especially POST requests to upgrade.php3.
Upgrade to a patched version of Phorum or the latest version. This is the primary and most effective remediation.
If upgrading is not immediately possible, remove or disable the upgrade.php3 script. This will prevent exploitation of the vulnerability.
Implement a web application firewall (WAF) to filter malicious traffic and prevent SQL injection or other attacks.
Review and harden the web server configuration to minimize attack surface.
Regularly scan the system for vulnerabilities and apply security patches promptly.
Implement strong password policies and multi-factor authentication (MFA) for all user accounts.
Regularly back up the database and system files.