CVE-2002-2287 in Advanced Quick Reply Hack
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in quick_reply.php for phpBB Advanced Quick Reply Hack 1.0.0 and 1.1.0 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via the phpbb_root_path parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/29/2025
The vulnerability described in CVE-2002-2287 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw affecting the phpBB Advanced Quick Reply Hack version 1.0.0 and 1.1.0. This vulnerability resides within the quick_reply.php script and stems from improper input validation mechanisms that fail to sanitize the phpbb_root_path parameter. The flaw allows malicious actors to inject arbitrary file paths into the application's execution flow, creating a pathway for remote code execution. This type of vulnerability falls under the category of insecure direct object references and represents a classic example of how insufficient parameter validation can lead to severe security implications in web applications.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker manipulates the phpbb_root_path parameter to include malicious file paths that are then processed by the vulnerable phpBB extension. The flaw essentially allows attackers to include arbitrary PHP files from remote locations, potentially enabling them to execute malicious code on the target server. This vulnerability directly maps to CWE-88, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in an expression, specifically in the context of command injection and file inclusion attacks. The vulnerability's impact is amplified by the fact that it affects a widely used bulletin board system, making it particularly attractive to attackers seeking to compromise web servers running vulnerable installations.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with the capability to gain persistent access to affected systems. Once exploited, attackers can upload backdoors, establish command and control channels, or extract sensitive data from the compromised server. The vulnerability affects not only individual user accounts but potentially entire web server infrastructures, as phpBB installations often contain sensitive configuration data, user credentials, and database connection details. This represents a significant concern from an attacker's perspective, as it aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for execution through PHP and T1505.003 for server-side include attacks, both of which are commonly used in web-based exploitation campaigns targeting content management systems and forum platforms.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on immediate patching of affected installations and implementation of proper input validation mechanisms. Organizations should ensure that all phpBB installations are updated to versions that address this specific flaw, as the vulnerability was resolved through proper parameter sanitization and input validation. Network-level protections such as web application firewalls can provide additional defense-in-depth measures by blocking suspicious file inclusion patterns. Additionally, implementing proper access controls and restricting file inclusion capabilities within the application's configuration can help prevent exploitation attempts. Security monitoring should include detection of unusual file inclusion patterns and unauthorized access attempts to phpBB-related scripts, as these activities often precede successful exploitation of such vulnerabilities.