CVE-2009-0527 in AdaptCMS
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in plugins/rss_importer_functions.php in AdaptCMS Lite 1.4 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the sitepath parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/03/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2009-0527 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw in AdaptCMS Lite 1.4 that exposes the system to arbitrary code execution attacks. This vulnerability specifically targets the rss_importer_functions.php plugin file, which processes user-supplied input without proper validation or sanitization. The flaw exists in the handling of the sitepath parameter, which allows attackers to inject malicious URLs that get included and executed on the target server. This type of vulnerability falls under the category of insecure direct object references and represents a classic example of how improper input validation can lead to complete system compromise.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability demonstrates a fundamental failure in input sanitization practices within the CMS plugin architecture. When the sitepath parameter is passed to the rss_importer_functions.php file, the application does not properly validate or sanitize the input before using it in file inclusion operations. This creates an opportunity for attackers to manipulate the application's behavior by injecting URLs that point to malicious remote resources. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code on the target system, potentially leading to full system compromise, data theft, or service disruption. From a cybersecurity perspective, this vulnerability aligns with CWE-94, which describes improper control of generation of code, and represents a clear violation of secure coding principles.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends far beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with the capability to establish persistent access to affected systems. Once exploited, attackers can upload backdoors, modify content, steal sensitive information, or use the compromised server as a launch point for further attacks within the network. The remote nature of the vulnerability means that attackers do not need physical access to the system or local network privileges to exploit it, making it particularly attractive for automated attack campaigns. This vulnerability also demonstrates the importance of proper input validation and the principle of least privilege in web application security. From an attack framework perspective, this vulnerability would likely be categorized under the execution phase of the kill chain, potentially enabling lateral movement and privilege escalation within compromised environments.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2009-0527 must address both the immediate exploitation risk and the underlying architectural issues that enabled the vulnerability. The primary recommendation involves implementing strict input validation and sanitization for all user-supplied parameters, particularly those used in file inclusion operations. Organizations should disable remote file inclusion functionality entirely within their applications and implement proper parameter validation that rejects any input containing suspicious patterns or external URLs. Additionally, the use of secure coding practices such as input whitelisting, proper error handling, and regular security code reviews should be enforced. System administrators should also consider implementing web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems to monitor for exploitation attempts. The vulnerability highlights the critical importance of keeping CMS platforms updated with the latest security patches and following security best practices such as those outlined in the OWASP Top Ten and NIST cybersecurity guidelines. Organizations should also conduct regular vulnerability assessments and penetration testing to identify similar issues in their web applications and infrastructure.