CVE-2003-1227 in Gallery
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file include vulnerability in index.php for Gallery 1.4 and 1.4-pl1, when running on Windows or in Configuration mode on Unix, allows remote attackers to inject arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the GALLERY_BASEDIR parameter, a different vulnerability than CVE-2002-1412. NOTE: this issue might be exploitable only during installation, or if the administrator has not run a security script after installation.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/16/2025
The vulnerability described in CVE-2003-1227 represents a critical remote code execution flaw within the Gallery 1.4 web application, specifically affecting versions 1.4 and 1.4-pl1. This security weakness manifests in the index.php script and exploits a remote file inclusion vulnerability that can be leveraged by malicious actors to execute arbitrary PHP code on the target system. The flaw is particularly concerning because it operates under specific environmental conditions that make exploitation more feasible, namely when the application runs on Windows operating systems or when configured to operate in Configuration mode on Unix systems. The vulnerability falls under the category of CWE-88, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in an OS command, and specifically aligns with CWE-94, which addresses the execution of arbitrary code due to improper input validation. This vulnerability is distinct from CVE-2002-1412, indicating that it represents a separate attack vector that requires different exploitation techniques.
The technical mechanism of this vulnerability involves the improper handling of the GALLERY_BASEDIR parameter within the index.php file, where user-supplied input is directly incorporated into file inclusion operations without adequate sanitization or validation. When an attacker provides a malicious URL as the value for the GALLERY_BASEDIR parameter, the application processes this input and attempts to include the specified remote file, effectively allowing the attacker to inject and execute arbitrary PHP code on the server. This type of vulnerability enables attackers to gain unauthorized access to the system, potentially leading to complete compromise of the web server and the underlying data. The exploitation process typically requires an attacker to craft a specially formatted URL that points to malicious code hosted on a remote server, which is then executed by the vulnerable Gallery application. This attack pattern aligns with the ATT&CK technique T1190, which involves exploiting vulnerabilities in web applications to execute malicious code.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with the capability to perform various malicious activities including data theft, system compromise, and further lateral movement within the network. The vulnerability's potential for exploitation during installation phases presents a particularly dangerous scenario, as it allows attackers to compromise the application before proper security measures are implemented. Additionally, the requirement for administrators to run security scripts after installation creates a window of opportunity where the system remains vulnerable until these remediation steps are completed. This timing aspect of the vulnerability makes it especially attractive to attackers who can target systems during their initial setup or configuration phases. The implications of this vulnerability are compounded by the fact that it affects both Windows and Unix environments, broadening the potential attack surface and making it relevant across different server configurations. The vulnerability also demonstrates the importance of input validation and the principle of least privilege in web application security, as proper sanitization of user inputs could prevent this type of exploitation.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2003-1227 should focus on immediate patching of affected Gallery versions, implementation of proper input validation mechanisms, and enforcement of secure coding practices within web applications. System administrators should ensure that all security patches and updates are applied promptly, particularly during installation phases when the vulnerability is most exploitable. The implementation of web application firewalls and input filtering mechanisms can provide additional layers of protection against such attacks. Organizations should also implement regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning to identify and remediate similar issues before they can be exploited. The use of secure coding practices such as parameterized queries, input sanitization, and proper error handling can significantly reduce the risk of similar vulnerabilities. Additionally, the vulnerability highlights the importance of following security best practices such as disabling unnecessary features, implementing proper access controls, and maintaining up-to-date security configurations. Regular security training for system administrators and developers can help prevent the introduction of similar vulnerabilities in future applications, while also ensuring that proper security protocols are followed throughout the application lifecycle.