Generic Code Injection Vulnerability Scanner

The technologies scanned, including PHP, Ruby, Python, Java, and ASP, represent the backbone of modern web development. PHP is a widely-used open-source scripting language primarily suited for web development and can be embedded into HTML. Ruby, often used with the Rails framework, is known for its elegant syntax and rapid development capabilities. Python is a versatile, high-level language used for web applications, data science, and automation. Java is a class-based, object-oriented language designed for portability, powering large-scale enterprise applications. ASP (Active Server Pages), and its successor ASP.NET, are server-side scripting technologies from Microsoft used to create dynamic web pages.

Code Injection is a critical vulnerability that occurs when an application improperly handles user-supplied data, allowing an attacker to introduce malicious code into the application's runtime environment. This vulnerability is not language-specific and can affect any application that interprets or executes code based on untrusted input. The root cause is a lack of strict input validation and sanitization. An attacker can exploit this flaw by crafting input that the application's interpreter will execute as a command. This differs from command injection, as it involves injecting code in the application's own language (e.g., PHP code), rather than system shell commands. Successful exploitation almost always leads to full remote code execution (RCE) within the context of the application server.

This vulnerability typically manifests in functions that dynamically evaluate or execute code from strings. For example, in PHP, functions like eval(), preg_replace() with the '/e' modifier (now deprecated), or assert() can be dangerous if they process user-controlled variables. A vulnerable endpoint might be a URL parameter, such as index.php?module=contact.php, where an attacker might try to inject code. If the application insecurely includes the 'module' parameter, an attacker could potentially pass executable code. Other common vectors include data from forms, cookies, or HTTP headers that are passed to an interpreter function. The scanner attempts to identify such vulnerable patterns by sending payloads designed to be executed by these high-risk functions.

The consequences of a successful Code Injection attack are severe and far-reaching. An attacker can gain complete control over the application server, effectively achieving Remote Code Execution (RCE). This allows them to read, modify, or delete any file on the server, including sensitive configuration files, source code, and user data. Malicious actors could install backdoors, create web shells for persistent access, or pivot to attack other systems within the internal network. Furthermore, the compromised server can be used to host malware, launch denial-of-service attacks, or be included in a botnet. Ultimately, a Code Injection vulnerability can lead to total system compromise, significant data breaches, and severe reputational damage.