CVE-2007-2327 in HTMLeditbox
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in _editor.php in HTMLeditbox 2.2 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the settings[app_dir] parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/09/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-2327 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw within the HTMLeditbox 2.2 web application framework. This vulnerability specifically affects the _editor.php component where the settings[app_dir] parameter is processed without adequate input validation or sanitization. The flaw stems from the application's improper handling of user-supplied data that is directly incorporated into file inclusion operations, creating an avenue for malicious actors to execute arbitrary code on the target system. The vulnerability classifies under CWE-88, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in an expression, specifically in the context of remote file inclusion attacks. This weakness enables attackers to manipulate the application's file inclusion mechanism by supplying a malicious URL through the vulnerable parameter.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker crafts a malicious URL and injects it into the settings[app_dir] parameter of the _editor.php script. When the application processes this parameter, it treats the supplied URL as a legitimate file path and attempts to include the remote file, thereby executing any PHP code contained within that file. The attack vector operates through the PHP include or require functions, which are designed to incorporate external files into the executing script. The vulnerability's severity is amplified by the fact that it allows for complete arbitrary code execution, potentially enabling attackers to gain full control over the affected web server. This type of vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190, which describes the use of remote file inclusion to execute malicious code on a target system.
The operational impact of CVE-2007-2327 extends beyond simple code execution to encompass complete system compromise and data exfiltration capabilities. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability can deploy web shells, establish persistent backdoors, and access sensitive data stored on the server. The vulnerability affects the application's integrity and confidentiality by allowing unauthorized access to the underlying system resources. Organizations running affected versions of HTMLeditbox are at risk of having their web applications compromised, potentially leading to data breaches, service disruption, and regulatory compliance violations. The vulnerability's exploitation requires minimal technical skill, making it particularly dangerous as it can be leveraged by attackers with limited expertise in web application security. The flaw demonstrates poor input validation practices and highlights the importance of implementing proper security controls around dynamic file inclusion operations.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability involve multiple layers of defensive measures to prevent exploitation. The primary recommendation is to upgrade to a patched version of HTMLeditbox that addresses the remote file inclusion vulnerability in the _editor.php component. Administrators should also implement proper input validation and sanitization for all user-supplied parameters, particularly those used in file inclusion operations. The implementation of a Web Application Firewall (WAF) can provide additional protection by filtering malicious requests containing suspicious URL patterns. Input validation should enforce strict parameter checking, ensuring that only expected and safe values are accepted for the settings[app_dir] parameter. Additionally, the principle of least privilege should be applied by restricting file inclusion capabilities and ensuring that the web application runs with minimal required permissions. Security monitoring and log analysis should be enhanced to detect suspicious file inclusion patterns and anomalous behavior that may indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of secure coding practices and the necessity of regular security assessments to identify and remediate similar weaknesses in web applications.