CVE-2008-3575 in ezContents
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in modules/calendar/minicalendar.php in ezContents CMS allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the GLOBALS[gsLanguage] parameter, a different vector than CVE-2006-4477 and CVE-2004-0132.
If you want to get the best quality for vulnerability data then you always have to consider VulDB.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/22/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-3575 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw within the ezContents CMS platform, specifically affecting the modules/calendar/minicalendar.php component. This vulnerability operates through the GLOBALS[gsLanguage] parameter, creating a pathway for malicious actors to inject and execute arbitrary PHP code on the target system. The flaw demonstrates the dangerous practice of directly incorporating user-supplied input into file inclusion operations without proper validation or sanitization mechanisms.
This vulnerability falls under the CWE-98 category of "Improper Neutralization of Special Elements used in an OS Command" and more specifically relates to CWE-88 which covers "Improper Neutralization of Argument Separators in a Command." The attack vector is particularly concerning as it allows remote code execution through a URL parameter, enabling attackers to leverage the vulnerability from external systems without requiring local access. The vulnerability differs from previously identified issues such as CVE-2006-4477 and CVE-2004-0132, indicating a distinct code path that was not addressed by earlier patches, suggesting a persistent flaw in the application's input handling mechanisms.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with the ability to fully compromise the affected system. Once exploited, adversaries can gain unauthorized access to the server, potentially leading to data breaches, system takeover, or the establishment of persistent backdoors. The vulnerability affects the core functionality of the ezContents CMS calendar module, which is commonly used for scheduling and event management, making it a valuable target for attackers seeking to disrupt business operations or extract sensitive information.
From a defensive perspective, this vulnerability highlights the critical importance of implementing proper input validation and sanitization practices. The recommended mitigations include implementing strict parameter validation, utilizing allowlists for acceptable input values, and employing secure coding practices that prevent user input from being directly interpreted as file paths or URLs. Organizations should also implement web application firewalls and regularly update their CMS platforms to address known vulnerabilities. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this type of vulnerability under T1059.007 for "Command and Scripting Interpreter: Python" and T1071.004 for "Application Layer Protocol: DNS," emphasizing the need for comprehensive network monitoring and intrusion detection systems to identify exploitation attempts. Additionally, the principle of least privilege should be enforced to limit the potential damage from successful exploitation, ensuring that the web application operates with minimal required permissions and that sensitive system resources remain protected.