CVE-2007-2774 in SunLight CMS
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple PHP remote file inclusion vulnerabilities in SunLight CMS 5.3 allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the root parameter to (1) _connect.php or (2) modules/startup.php.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/06/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-2774 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw within SunLight CMS version 5.3, classified under CWE-88 as improper neutralization of special elements used in an expression. This vulnerability stems from the application's failure to properly validate and sanitize user-supplied input parameters, specifically the root parameter, which is processed in two critical files: _connect.php and modules/startup.php. The flaw enables malicious actors to inject arbitrary URLs into the application's execution flow, creating a pathway for remote code execution through the manipulation of file inclusion mechanisms.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability exploits the PHP include or require functions, which are designed to incorporate and execute code from external files. When the root parameter is not properly sanitized, attackers can craft malicious URLs that point to remote servers hosting malicious PHP payloads. This allows for arbitrary code execution on the vulnerable server, as the CMS processes these external URLs as legitimate code sources. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it affects core system files that are essential for the CMS initialization process, providing attackers with extensive control over the application's runtime environment.
Operationally, this vulnerability creates severe implications for system security and data integrity, as it enables attackers to execute commands on the affected server with the privileges of the web application user. The impact extends beyond simple code execution to encompass potential data theft, system compromise, and further lateral movement within the network. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to establish persistent backdoors, install malware, or perform reconnaissance activities that could lead to complete system takeover. The vulnerability's remote nature means that exploitation does not require local access to the system, making it particularly attractive to attackers who seek to compromise systems from external networks.
The remediation strategy for CVE-2007-2774 requires immediate implementation of input validation and sanitization measures across all user-supplied parameters. Organizations should implement strict parameter validation that rejects any input containing URLs or external references, particularly in critical system files. The recommended approach involves utilizing PHP's built-in functions for input sanitization and implementing a whitelist validation approach for all file inclusion operations. Additionally, the vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190 for exploiting vulnerabilities in web applications, and T1059 for command and scripting interpreter usage. System administrators should also consider implementing web application firewalls and network segmentation to limit the potential impact of such vulnerabilities. The most effective mitigation involves upgrading to a patched version of SunLight CMS or implementing proper input validation that prevents any external URL inclusion in critical application files, thereby eliminating the attack vector that enables this remote code execution capability.