CVE-2003-1402 in Kietu
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in hit.php for Kietu 2.0 and 2.3 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via the url_hit parameter, a different vulnerability than CVE-2006-5015.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/14/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2003-1402 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw in the Kietu content management system versions 2.0 and 2.3. This vulnerability specifically affects the hit.php script which processes the url_hit parameter, creating an avenue for remote attackers to inject and execute arbitrary PHP code on the targeted server. The flaw demonstrates a classic insecure direct object reference vulnerability that allows attackers to manipulate input parameters to include external files, bypassing normal access controls and security boundaries.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and sanitization within the hit.php script. When the url_hit parameter is processed without proper validation, attackers can supply malicious URLs that point to remote servers hosting attacker-controlled PHP code. This creates a chain of execution where the web server fetches and executes the remote code as if it were part of the legitimate application. The vulnerability operates at the application layer and can be exploited through HTTP requests without requiring authentication or prior access to the system.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability enables attackers to gain complete control over the affected web server, potentially leading to data breaches, service disruption, and further lateral movement within the network infrastructure. The remote execution capability means that attackers can establish persistent backdoors, exfiltrate sensitive data, or use the compromised server as a launch point for attacks against other systems. The vulnerability's classification as a remote code execution flaw places it in the highest severity category according to industry standards and security frameworks.
Security professionals should note that this vulnerability aligns with CWE-88, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in an expression, and falls under the ATT&CK technique T1190 for exploitation of remote services. The flaw represents a significant risk to organizations using vulnerable versions of Kietu, as it requires no specialized tools or deep system knowledge to exploit. Organizations should immediately patch their systems to address this vulnerability and implement proper input validation measures to prevent similar issues in other applications. The remediation approach should include disabling remote file inclusion features, implementing strict parameter validation, and applying web application firewalls to monitor and block malicious requests targeting this specific vulnerability.