CVE-2002-2106 in WikkiTikkiTavi
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in WikkiTikkiTavi before 0.21 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via the TemplateDir variable, as demonstrated using conflict.php.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/30/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2002-2106 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw in the WikkiTikkiTavi web application prior to version 0.21. This vulnerability resides in the application's handling of the TemplateDir variable, which creates an opportunity for remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code on the affected system. The flaw demonstrates the dangerous implications of improper input validation and dynamic code execution mechanisms within web applications. The vulnerability specifically affects the template directory parameter processing, where user-supplied input is directly incorporated into file inclusion operations without adequate sanitization or validation measures.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through the manipulation of the TemplateDir variable, which is typically used to specify the directory containing template files for the application's user interface. When the application processes this parameter without proper validation, attackers can inject malicious file paths that point to remote PHP scripts. The demonstration using conflict.php illustrates how an attacker can leverage this weakness to execute arbitrary code on the target server, effectively bypassing normal application security controls. This type of vulnerability falls under the category of CWE-94, which describes "Improper Control of Generation of Code ('Code Injection')" and specifically relates to the improper handling of dynamic code execution paths. The vulnerability represents a classic example of a remote code execution flaw that can be exploited through parameter manipulation and demonstrates the fundamental security principle that all user input should be treated as untrusted and validated before processing.
The operational impact of CVE-2002-2106 extends far beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with complete control over the affected web server. Once successfully exploited, attackers can upload additional malicious files, establish persistent backdoors, access sensitive data stored within the application, and potentially use the compromised server as a launching point for further attacks within the network infrastructure. The vulnerability's remote nature means that exploitation can occur from any location with internet access, making it particularly dangerous for publicly accessible web applications. This flaw directly aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007, which describes "Command and Scripting Interpreter: PHP," as attackers can leverage the vulnerability to execute PHP scripts remotely. The vulnerability also maps to ATT&CK technique T1190, "Exploit Public-Facing Application," since it represents an unpatched vulnerability in a publicly accessible web application that can be exploited over the network.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate patching of the WikkiTikkiTavi application to version 0.21 or later, where the flawed template directory handling has been corrected. Organizations should implement input validation measures that sanitize all user-supplied parameters before processing, particularly those used in file inclusion operations. The recommended approach involves using allowlists of permitted template directories rather than accepting arbitrary user input, and implementing proper path validation to prevent directory traversal attacks. Additionally, system administrators should consider implementing web application firewalls that can detect and block malicious parameter injection attempts. The vulnerability highlights the importance of following secure coding practices such as those outlined in the OWASP Top Ten, specifically addressing injection flaws and improper input validation. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be implemented to identify similar weaknesses in other applications, as this vulnerability type remains prevalent in many web applications due to insufficient input validation mechanisms and improper handling of dynamic file operations.