CVE-2007-2065 in ActionPoll
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in db/PollDB.php in Robert Ladstaetter ActionPoll 1.1.1 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the CONFIG_DATAREADERWRITER parameter, a different vector than CVE-2001-1297. NOTE: the provenance of this information is unknown; the details are obtained solely from third party information.
Statistical analysis made it clear that VulDB provides the best quality for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/09/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-2065 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw in the ActionPoll 1.1.1 web application developed by Robert Ladstaetter. This vulnerability specifically affects the db/PollDB.php component and resides within the CONFIG_DATAREADERWRITER parameter handling mechanism. The flaw enables remote attackers to inject malicious URLs that are subsequently processed by the application, creating an avenue for arbitrary code execution. Unlike similar vulnerabilities such as CVE-2001-1297, this particular exploit leverages a distinct attack vector that targets the configuration parameter rather than direct file inclusion mechanisms. The vulnerability demonstrates a classic insecure parameter handling issue where user-supplied input is directly incorporated into file path operations without proper validation or sanitization.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper input validation within the PollDB.php script where the CONFIG_DATAREADERWRITER parameter accepts external URL references without adequate security checks. When an attacker supplies a malicious URL through this parameter, the application processes the input and attempts to include the remote file, effectively executing any PHP code present in the remote resource. This behavior aligns with CWE-98, which describes improper file inclusion vulnerabilities where a web application includes files based on user-provided input. The vulnerability operates at the application level and requires minimal privileges to exploit, making it particularly dangerous as it can be leveraged by remote attackers without authentication. The flaw essentially transforms the application into a remote code execution platform when the parameter is manipulated to point to attacker-controlled resources.
The operational impact of CVE-2007-2065 extends beyond simple code execution to encompass complete system compromise potential. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability can gain unauthorized access to the web server hosting the vulnerable application, potentially leading to data breaches, system infiltration, and further network compromise. The vulnerability creates a persistent threat vector that can be exploited repeatedly, as the application continues to accept and process the malicious parameter until patched. This type of vulnerability is particularly concerning in web environments where applications are frequently accessed by multiple users, as it provides an entry point for malicious actors to establish footholds within the network infrastructure. The remote nature of the exploit means that attackers can target the vulnerability from anywhere on the internet, significantly expanding the potential attack surface.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2007-2065 should prioritize immediate patching of the vulnerable application to version 1.1.2 or later, as provided by the vendor. Organizations should implement input validation controls that prevent external URL references from being processed through the CONFIG_DATAREADERWRITER parameter, utilizing allowlists or strict validation patterns that reject non-local file paths. Network segmentation and web application firewalls can provide additional layers of protection by monitoring for suspicious URL patterns and blocking requests that attempt to include external resources. Security teams should also implement proper configuration management practices to ensure that applications are not configured to accept user input for file inclusion operations. According to ATT&CK framework category T1190, this vulnerability represents a remote services attack vector that can be exploited for initial access, making it crucial for organizations to implement comprehensive network monitoring and intrusion detection systems. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be conducted to identify similar issues in other applications within the infrastructure, as this type of flaw often indicates broader architectural security weaknesses that require systematic remediation across the entire application portfolio.