CVE-2015-10141 Scanner

Xdebug is a popular PHP debugging and profiling tool used widely by developers for improving and optimizing their PHP applications. It is used in local and distributed development environments to identify issues in code and ensure the smooth operation of PHP scripts. Xdebug integrates with various IDEs and text editors to facilitate remote debugging and code tracing. It helps developers gain detailed insights into their PHP code execution, providing stack traces, function monitoring, and performance profiling. Despite its functionalities aimed at easing the development process, Xdebug's features, particularly remote debugging, can be manipulated if not configured properly.

Command Injection vulnerabilities in software products like Xdebug allow an attacker to execute arbitrary commands on a host machine through the vulnerable application. In the case of Xdebug, this vulnerability arises from insufficient controls over the debugger protocol commands accepted by the application when remote debugging is enabled. An attacker can leverage this flaw to exploit the system, executing arbitrary PHP and system commands without authorization. This can lead to extensive unauthorized access and control over affected systems.

Technical details of this vulnerability in Xdebug indicate that when remote debugging is enabled, Xdebug can accept debugger protocol commands without adequate authentication. The GET request parameter 'XDEBUG_SESSION_START' can be manipulated with crafted data to exploit this flaw. When specific payloads are used, they can initiate an execution path that leads to arbitrary PHP code or system command execution. The vulnerability is further exploited as remote attackers can execute these commands leveraging the Xdebug protocol.

If successfully exploited, this Command Injection vulnerability can have severe impacts, including unauthorized remote code execution leading to complete compromise of the affected system. Attackers may gain full control of the server, alter files, intercept sensitive data, and pivot to further attacks within the network. Compromised systems could be leveraged for launching additional attacks, stealing sensitive data, or disrupting services.

REFERENCES

• https://github.com/vulhub/vulhub/tree/master/php/xdebug-rce
• https://redshark1802.com/blog/2015/11/13/xpwn-exploiting-xdebug-enabled-servers/
• https://paper.seebug.org/397/
• https://github.com/D3Ext/XDEBUG-Exploit
• https://www.exploit-db.com/exploits/44568
• https://www.vulncheck.com/advisories/xdebug-remote-debugger-unauth-os-command-execution