CVE-2005-0272 in ReviewPost PHP Pro
Summary
by MITRE
ReviewPost PHP Pro before 2.84 allows remote attackers to upload and execute arbitrary PHP files by posting a review file with multiple extensions, which bypasses the intended restrictions.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/22/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2005-0272 affects ReviewPost PHP Pro versions prior to 2.84, presenting a critical security flaw that enables remote attackers to execute arbitrary code through improper file upload validation mechanisms. This issue stems from insufficient input sanitization and validation processes that fail to properly restrict file extensions, allowing malicious actors to bypass intended security measures. The vulnerability operates by exploiting the application's file extension handling logic, where attackers can append multiple extensions to their malicious payload files, effectively circumventing the intended file type restrictions.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the manipulation of file upload forms through crafted file names that contain multiple extensions. When a user submits a review file with a name such as exploit.php.jpg, the application processes the file based on its final extension rather than validating all extensions in the filename. This behavior creates a path traversal and code execution vector where PHP code embedded within the uploaded file can be executed on the web server. The flaw represents a classic case of insecure file upload handling that violates fundamental security principles for validating user-provided content.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability poses significant risks to organizations running affected versions of ReviewPost PHP Pro, as it allows attackers to gain unauthorized access to server resources and potentially escalate privileges. The remote execution capability means that attackers do not require physical access or prior authentication to exploit the vulnerability, making it particularly dangerous in publicly accessible web applications. Successful exploitation could lead to complete server compromise, data theft, service disruption, and potential lateral movement within network environments where the vulnerable application resides.
The vulnerability aligns with CWE-434, which specifically addresses "Unrestricted Upload of File with Dangerous Type," and demonstrates weaknesses in input validation and file type checking mechanisms. From an attacker's perspective, this vulnerability maps to several ATT&CK techniques including T1190 for exploit public-facing application and T1059 for command and script injection. Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including updating to ReviewPost PHP Pro version 2.84 or later, implementing strict file extension validation, using random file name generation, and configuring web server restrictions to prevent execution of uploaded files in web-accessible directories.
The root cause of this vulnerability lies in the improper implementation of file extension validation logic, where the application fails to properly sanitize filenames or enforce strict file type restrictions. Effective remediation requires comprehensive input validation that examines the complete file path and name, implements whitelisting of allowed file extensions, and ensures that uploaded files are stored outside of web root directories. Additionally, organizations should consider implementing additional security controls such as MIME type checking, file content analysis, and regular security audits to prevent similar vulnerabilities from being introduced in future applications.