CVE-2003-0394 in BLNews
Summary
by MITRE
objects.inc.php4 in BLNews 2.1.3 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a Server[path] parameter that points to malicious code on an attacker-controlled web site.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/17/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2003-0394 resides within the BLNews 2.1.3 content management system and represents a critical remote code execution flaw that directly impacts web application security. This vulnerability specifically affects the objects.inc.php4 file, which serves as a core component in the system's object handling mechanism. The flaw enables malicious actors to inject and execute arbitrary PHP code on vulnerable systems by manipulating the Server[path] parameter, creating a significant attack vector that bypasses normal security boundaries.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper input validation and insecure parameter handling within the BLNews application. When the Server[path] parameter is processed, the application fails to properly sanitize or validate the input before incorporating it into the execution flow. This oversight allows attackers to supply a malicious path that points to code hosted on an attacker-controlled website, effectively enabling remote code execution. The vulnerability operates under CWE-94, which classifies it as an "Improper Control of Generation of Code ('Code Injection')" flaw, where the application incorporates untrusted data into executable code without proper validation or sanitization.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and far-reaching, as it provides attackers with complete control over the affected system. Once exploited, adversaries can execute arbitrary commands, potentially leading to data theft, system compromise, or complete server takeover. The remote nature of the attack means that exploitation can occur from anywhere on the internet without requiring local access or prior authentication. This vulnerability directly aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007, which covers "Command and Scripting Interpreter: PHP," and represents a classic example of how insecure input handling can lead to full system compromise.
The attack scenario typically involves an attacker constructing a malicious URL or HTTP request that includes a crafted Server[path] parameter pointing to malicious PHP code hosted on an external server. When the vulnerable BLNews application processes this parameter, it executes the code from the attacker-controlled site, effectively allowing the attacker to perform actions such as file manipulation, data exfiltration, or establishing persistent access. Organizations running BLNews 2.1.3 are particularly vulnerable due to the widespread use of this version and the lack of proper input validation in the core application components. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of implementing proper input sanitization and output encoding, as well as following secure coding practices that prevent code injection attacks. Organizations should immediately implement patches or upgrades to address this vulnerability, as the potential for exploitation remains high given the age of the affected software and the simplicity of the attack vector.