Source: cve@mitre.org
OpenBiblio 0.5.2-pre4 and earlier allows remote attackers to obtain configuration information via a direct request to phpinfo.php, which calls the phpinfo function.
OpenBiblio 0.5.2-pre4 and earlier versions are vulnerable to information disclosure, allowing attackers to retrieve sensitive configuration details through a direct request to phpinfo.php. This vulnerability exposes critical system information, including database credentials and server configurations, which can be leveraged for further exploitation and complete system compromise.
Step 1: Target Identification: The attacker identifies a vulnerable OpenBiblio installation, likely by scanning for the application or through public vulnerability databases.
Step 2: Request Construction: The attacker crafts a direct HTTP GET request to phpinfo.php on the target server (e.g., http://example.com/openbiblio/phpinfo.php).
Step 3: Vulnerability Trigger: The web server receives the request and executes phpinfo.php.
Step 4: Information Disclosure: The phpinfo() function is called, generating a detailed HTML page containing configuration information.
Step 5: Data Harvesting: The attacker receives the HTML response and analyzes it for sensitive information, such as database credentials, server paths, and installed modules.
Step 6: Post-Exploitation: The attacker uses the gathered information to launch further attacks, such as database compromise, code execution, or privilege escalation.
The vulnerability stems from the inclusion of phpinfo.php in the OpenBiblio application, which directly calls the phpinfo() function. This function, by design, outputs a wealth of information about the PHP environment, including server configuration, installed modules, environment variables, and potentially sensitive data like database connection strings if they are defined in the PHP configuration or environment. The lack of access control or authentication on phpinfo.php allows any remote attacker to access this sensitive information. The root cause is a design flaw where a debugging or diagnostic tool (phpinfo) is left enabled and publicly accessible in a production environment.
This vulnerability is a classic example of information disclosure, which is often a precursor to more sophisticated attacks. While no specific APTs are directly tied to this CVE, the information gained could be used by any attacker, including those associated with ransomware or data theft. Not listed in CISA KEV.
Web server logs: Look for requests to phpinfo.php or phpinfo within the access logs. Anomalous access patterns to this file should be investigated.
Network traffic analysis: Monitor network traffic for HTTP GET requests targeting phpinfo.php. Suspicious requests should be flagged.
File integrity monitoring: Monitor the integrity of the phpinfo.php file itself. Any unauthorized modifications should be investigated.
Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) systems: Configure SIEM rules to detect requests to phpinfo.php and alert on suspicious activity.
Remove phpinfo.php: The most effective remediation is to remove the phpinfo.php file from the web server. If it is required for debugging, restrict access to it via IP address or authentication.
Disable phpinfo() function: If removing the file is not possible, disable the phpinfo() function in the PHP configuration (php.ini).
Implement access controls: If phpinfo.php must remain, implement strong access controls, such as IP address restrictions and/or authentication, to limit access to authorized users only.
Regular security audits: Conduct regular security audits and penetration testing to identify and address vulnerabilities.
Keep software updated: Ensure that OpenBiblio and all related software (PHP, web server) are updated to the latest versions to patch known vulnerabilities.