CVE-2002-0764 in Phorum
Summary
by MITRE
Phorum 3.3.2a allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary commands via an HTTP request to (1) plugin.php, (2) admin.php, or (3) del.php that modifies the PHORUM[settings_dir] variable to point to a directory that contains a PHP file with the commands.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/14/2025
The vulnerability described in CVE-2002-0764 represents a critical remote code execution flaw in Phorum version 3.3.2a, a widely used web-based discussion forum software. This vulnerability stems from improper input validation and insecure parameter handling within the application's core functionality, specifically affecting three key script files that process user requests. The flaw allows remote attackers to manipulate the PHORUM[settings_dir] variable through HTTP requests, creating a pathway for arbitrary command execution on the affected server.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability leverages a classic path traversal and code injection vector that operates through the manipulation of configuration variables within the Phorum application. When an attacker sends a specially crafted HTTP request to plugin.php, admin.php, or del.php, they can modify the PHORUM[settings_dir] variable to point to a directory containing a malicious PHP file. This directory traversal attack exploits the application's failure to properly sanitize user-supplied input that influences critical system paths, effectively allowing attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code with the privileges of the web server process. The vulnerability is categorized under CWE-22 as a Path Traversal attack, where the attacker manipulates the application's file system access mechanisms to execute unauthorized code.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and far-reaching, as it provides attackers with complete control over the affected web server hosting the Phorum application. Successful exploitation enables unauthorized users to execute system commands, access sensitive data, modify or delete files, and potentially establish persistent backdoors within the compromised environment. The vulnerability affects the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the web application and underlying server infrastructure, making it particularly dangerous for organizations relying on Phorum for their online community platforms. Attackers could leverage this vulnerability to perform reconnaissance activities, escalate privileges, and use the compromised server as a launchpad for further attacks within the network.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2002-0764 should focus on immediate patching of the vulnerable Phorum version to the latest secure release, as no effective workarounds exist for this particular vulnerability. Organizations should implement network-level protections including firewall rules that restrict access to the affected PHP scripts and employ web application firewalls to detect and block malicious requests targeting these specific endpoints. Input validation and sanitization measures should be strengthened throughout the application, particularly around parameters that influence file system paths. Additionally, system administrators should conduct comprehensive security audits of their web applications, implement proper access controls, and ensure that all web applications are regularly updated with the latest security patches. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper parameter validation and secure coding practices, aligning with ATT&CK technique T1059 for executing malicious code through web application vulnerabilities, and emphasizes the critical need for robust input validation mechanisms as outlined in the OWASP Top Ten security principles.