CVE-2008-6196 in EasySite
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple PHP remote file inclusion vulnerabilities in Philippe CROCHAT EasySite 2.0 allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the EASYSITE_BASE parameter to (1) browser.php, (2) image_editor.php and (3) skin_chooser.php in configuration/. NOTE: the provenance of this information is unknown; the details are obtained solely from third party information.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/08/2025
This vulnerability represents a critical remote code execution flaw in Philippe CROCHAT EasySite 2.0 content management system that stems from improper input validation and dynamic code inclusion mechanisms. The vulnerability exists in three specific files within the configuration directory where the EASYSITE_BASE parameter is directly used to construct file paths without adequate sanitization or validation. Attackers can exploit this by crafting malicious URLs in the EASYSITE_BASE parameter that point to remote PHP files, enabling arbitrary code execution on the target server. This type of vulnerability falls under CWE-88, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in an expression, specifically in the context of remote file inclusion attacks. The attack vector operates through the standard HTTP protocol where an attacker can manipulate the parameter to reference external resources, bypassing normal access controls and security boundaries.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability exploits the fundamental flaw in how PHP handles dynamic file inclusion through variables. When the EASYSITE_BASE parameter is passed to browser.php, image_editor.php, or skin_chooser.php, the application directly incorporates this user-supplied input into file path construction without proper validation. This creates a scenario where an attacker can inject a remote URL that points to malicious PHP code hosted on an external server. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it allows attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code with the privileges of the web server process, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The flaw demonstrates poor input sanitization practices and highlights the importance of implementing proper parameter validation and secure coding practices when dealing with dynamic file operations.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends far beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with complete control over the affected server. Once exploited, attackers can upload additional malicious files, establish backdoors, steal sensitive data, modify website content, or use the compromised server as a launching point for further attacks against other systems. The vulnerability affects the core functionality of the EasySite application and can lead to data breaches, service disruption, and potential regulatory compliance violations. Organizations using this version of EasySite face significant risk of unauthorized access and system compromise, particularly in environments where the application is accessible from untrusted networks. The vulnerability also demonstrates the broader threat landscape of remote file inclusion attacks, which are commonly categorized under the attack techniques described in the MITRE ATT&CK framework as T1190 - Exploit Public-Facing Application, with potential lateral movement and privilege escalation capabilities.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on immediate patching and input validation implementation. The most effective solution is to upgrade to a patched version of EasySite 2.0 that properly validates and sanitizes all user inputs before using them in file inclusion operations. Organizations should implement strict input validation that rejects any input containing remote URL schemes or external references. Additionally, the application should be configured to use absolute paths instead of relative paths that can be manipulated through parameters. Security measures should include disabling remote file inclusion features entirely, implementing proper access controls, and monitoring for suspicious file access patterns. Network-level protections such as web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems can help detect and block exploitation attempts. The vulnerability also underscores the importance of keeping all web applications updated and following secure coding practices that prevent similar issues in future development cycles. Organizations should conduct thorough security assessments of their web applications to identify and remediate similar input validation weaknesses that could lead to remote code execution vulnerabilities.