CVE-2004-2368 in Opt-X
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in header.php in Opt-X 0.7.2 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via the systempath parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/05/2025
The vulnerability described in CVE-2004-2368 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw affecting the Opt-X content management system version 0.7.2. This vulnerability resides within the header.php file and specifically targets the systempath parameter, creating a pathway for malicious actors to execute arbitrary PHP code on the affected server. The flaw demonstrates a classic insecure direct object reference vulnerability where user-supplied input is directly incorporated into file inclusion operations without proper validation or sanitization.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper input handling within the Opt-X application's header.php script. When the systempath parameter is passed to the application, it is directly used in a file inclusion directive without adequate filtering or sanitization mechanisms. This allows attackers to manipulate the parameter value to include malicious files hosted on remote servers, effectively bypassing the application's intended security boundaries. The vulnerability falls under CWE-98 which specifically addresses improper file inclusion, and more broadly under CWE-22 which covers path traversal and directory traversal issues. Attackers can exploit this by crafting malicious URLs that include the systempath parameter with crafted values pointing to remote PHP scripts, enabling remote code execution capabilities.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe as it provides attackers with complete control over the affected server running the Opt-X application. Once exploited, malicious actors can execute arbitrary commands, access sensitive data, install backdoors, and potentially escalate privileges to gain deeper system access. The vulnerability affects any system running Opt-X 0.7.2 where the header.php file is accessible and where the systempath parameter is processed without proper validation. This creates a significant risk for web applications that rely on user input for file operations, particularly in environments where the application has elevated privileges or access to sensitive system resources.
From an attack perspective, this vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1505.003 which focuses on server-side include attacks, and T1059.007 which covers scripting languages including PHP. The exploitation process typically involves crafting a malicious URL that includes the systempath parameter with a remote PHP payload, often hosted on attacker-controlled servers. Mitigation strategies should include implementing proper input validation and sanitization for all user-supplied parameters, particularly those used in file inclusion operations. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls, disabling dangerous PHP functions like allow_url_include, and applying the latest security patches from Opt-X vendor. Additionally, the principle of least privilege should be enforced, ensuring that web applications run with minimal required permissions and that file inclusion operations are restricted to predefined safe directories only.