CVE-2007-2272 in Advanced Webhost Billing System
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in docs/front-end-demo/cart2.php in Advanced Webhost Billing System (AWBS) 2.4.0 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the workdir parameter.
If you want to get best quality of vulnerability data, you may have to visit VulDB.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/26/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-2272 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw within the Advanced Webhost Billing System version 2.4.0, specifically affecting the docs/front-end-demo/cart2.php component. This issue falls under the category of insecure direct object references and improper input validation, creating a pathway for malicious actors to execute arbitrary code on the targeted system. The vulnerability stems from the application's failure to properly sanitize user-supplied input parameters, particularly the workdir parameter that controls directory navigation within the application's file system structure.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker crafts a malicious URL and passes it through the workdir parameter in the cart2.php script. This allows the application to include and execute remote PHP files, effectively bypassing the intended security boundaries of the web application. The flaw is classified as a remote code execution vulnerability, which provides attackers with the ability to gain full control over the affected system. The vulnerability operates at the intersection of CWE-98 and CWE-89, representing both insecure direct object references and improper neutralization of special elements used in os command injection. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to T1190 - Exploit Public-Facing Application, where attackers leverage publicly accessible web applications to gain unauthorized access.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and multifaceted, potentially allowing attackers to execute arbitrary commands, escalate privileges, and establish persistent access to the compromised system. Once exploited, attackers can manipulate the web server configuration, steal sensitive data, install backdoors, or use the compromised system as a launch point for further attacks within the network infrastructure. The vulnerability affects the availability, integrity, and confidentiality of the affected system, as it provides an unauthenticated attack vector that can be exploited from anywhere on the internet. Organizations running AWBS version 2.4.0 are particularly at risk since this vulnerability has existed for many years and likely lacks proper input validation mechanisms. The attack surface extends beyond simple code execution to include potential data breaches, system compromise, and service disruption.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate implementation of multiple defensive measures to protect against exploitation. The primary recommendation involves implementing strict input validation and sanitization for all user-supplied parameters, particularly those used in file inclusion operations. Organizations should disable remote file inclusion capabilities entirely by configuring PHP settings to restrict the use of remote URLs in include statements. Additionally, implementing proper access controls and input validation within the application code can prevent attackers from manipulating the workdir parameter to reference external resources. Security patches and updates to the AWBS software should be applied immediately, as this vulnerability has been widely known and documented for years. Network-level protections including web application firewalls and intrusion prevention systems can help detect and block malicious requests attempting to exploit this vulnerability, while regular security audits and code reviews should be conducted to identify similar flaws in other components of the application. The remediation process must also include monitoring for any signs of compromise or exploitation attempts that may have already occurred before implementing these protective measures.