CVE-2007-5650 in ReloadCMS
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in system.php in ReloadCMS 1.2.7 allows remote attackers to include and execute arbitrary local files via a .. (dot dot) in the module parameter to index.php.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/29/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-5650 represents a critical directory traversal flaw within ReloadCMS version 1.2.7 that exposes the system to remote code execution attacks. This weakness exists in the system.php file and specifically affects the module parameter handling within index.php. The vulnerability allows attackers to manipulate file paths through the use of dot-dot sequences, creating a pathway to access and execute arbitrary local files on the server. The flaw stems from insufficient input validation and sanitization of user-supplied parameters that are directly incorporated into file inclusion operations without proper authorization checks or path normalization.
This directory traversal vulnerability falls under the Common Weakness Enumeration category CWE-22, which specifically addresses improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal or directory traversal attacks. The attack vector exploits the lack of proper input filtering mechanisms that should validate and sanitize all user-provided data before it is processed in file system operations. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it allows attackers to traverse the file system hierarchy and potentially access sensitive files such as configuration files, database credentials, or system files that should remain protected from unauthorized access. The attack can be executed remotely without requiring authentication, making it especially severe in web applications that are publicly accessible.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple file disclosure to encompass complete system compromise. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability can execute arbitrary code on the target system, potentially leading to data theft, system takeover, or deployment of malicious payloads. The flaw enables attackers to include and execute local files, which means they can leverage the web server's privileges to access files that would normally be restricted. This capability can result in privilege escalation, persistence mechanisms, and further lateral movement within the network infrastructure. The vulnerability affects not just individual files but entire directories that may contain sensitive information or critical system components. The attack can be particularly devastating in environments where the web application runs with elevated privileges, as it provides a direct pathway to system-level access and control.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability must address both immediate remediation and long-term security hardening measures. The primary fix involves implementing strict input validation and sanitization for all parameters that are used in file inclusion operations, particularly ensuring that directory traversal sequences are properly detected and rejected. Organizations should implement proper parameter validation that filters out or removes special characters such as dots and forward slashes that could be used to manipulate file paths. The implementation of a whitelist approach for valid module parameters can significantly reduce the attack surface by only allowing known good values. Additionally, the web application should be configured to run with minimal required privileges, ensuring that even if exploitation occurs, the attacker's capabilities are limited. Security measures should include regular vulnerability assessments, input validation testing, and code reviews focused on file system operations. The principle of least privilege should be enforced at all levels of the application architecture, and proper access controls should be implemented to prevent unauthorized file access. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems to monitor for suspicious patterns that may indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability highlights the critical importance of proper input validation and the need for security-conscious development practices that follow established secure coding guidelines and principles.