CVE-2010-1216 in notsoPureEdit
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in templates/template.php in notsoPureEdit 1.4.1 and earlier, when register_globals is enabled, allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the content parameter. NOTE: some of these details are obtained from third party information.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/04/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2010-1216 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw in the notsoPureEdit content management system version 1.4.1 and earlier. This vulnerability specifically affects systems where the PHP configuration parameter register_globals is enabled, creating a dangerous condition that allows remote attackers to inject and execute arbitrary PHP code. The flaw exists within the templates/template.php file, which processes user input through the content parameter without adequate validation or sanitization mechanisms.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability relies on the dangerous behavior of register_globals, a deprecated PHP configuration option that automatically registers user input as global variables. When enabled, this setting transforms HTTP request parameters into accessible global variables, eliminating the need for explicit variable declaration. Attackers can manipulate the content parameter to point to malicious remote URLs, causing the vulnerable application to include and execute code from external sources. This creates a classic remote code execution scenario where attacker-controlled code can be seamlessly integrated into the target system's execution flow.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with complete control over the affected system. Once exploited, adversaries can establish persistent backdoors, escalate privileges, access sensitive data, and potentially use the compromised system as a launch point for further attacks within the network infrastructure. The vulnerability affects notsoPureEdit installations where the dangerous register_globals setting is enabled, making it particularly concerning for legacy systems that have not been properly updated or secured. This flaw directly maps to CWE-88, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in an eval-like context, and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190 for exploiting vulnerabilities in web applications.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate action to disable the register_globals configuration parameter in PHP settings, as this alone would prevent exploitation. Additionally, implementing proper input validation and sanitization measures within the application code is essential to prevent any potential bypass attempts. System administrators should also consider updating to newer versions of notsoPureEdit that address this vulnerability, along with implementing web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems to monitor for exploitation attempts. The fundamental requirement is to eliminate the dangerous PHP configuration setting and ensure all user inputs are properly validated before being processed by the application.