CVE-2012-2067 in CKeditor
Summary
by MITRE
Unspecified vulnerability in the CKeditor module 6.x-2.x before 6.x-2.3 and the CKEditor module 6.x-1.x before 6.x-1.9 and 7.x-1.x before 7.x-1.7 for Drupal, when the core PHP module is enabled, allows remote authenticated users or remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via the text parameter to a text filter. NOTE: some of these details are obtained from third party information.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/20/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2012-2067 represents a critical remote code execution flaw within the CKEditor module for Drupal platforms. This security weakness affects multiple versions of the CKEditor module including 6.x-2.x prior to 6.x-2.3, 6.x-1.x prior to 6.x-1.9, and 7.x-1.x prior to 7.x-1.7. The vulnerability specifically emerges when the core PHP module is enabled within the Drupal environment, creating a dangerous attack vector for malicious actors. The flaw enables both authenticated users and remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code through manipulation of the text parameter within a text filter mechanism, fundamentally compromising the integrity and security posture of affected systems.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization within the text filter processing functionality of the CKEditor module. When users submit content containing specially crafted PHP code within the text parameter, the system fails to properly sanitize or escape the input before processing. This occurs because the text filter mechanism does not adequately distinguish between legitimate content and potentially malicious code, particularly when the PHP module is enabled. The vulnerability operates at the core of Drupal's content processing pipeline, where user-submitted text is filtered and processed, creating an opportunity for attackers to inject and execute arbitrary PHP commands on the server. This represents a classic code injection vulnerability that can be classified under CWE-94, which specifically addresses "Improper Control of Generation of Code ('Code Injection')" and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190, "Exploit Public-Facing Application," as it allows remote exploitation of web applications through input manipulation.
The operational impact of CVE-2012-2067 extends far beyond simple data theft or modification, as successful exploitation can result in complete system compromise. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to gain unauthorized access to the underlying server, execute malicious commands, install backdoors, or establish persistent access to the compromised Drupal installation. The remote nature of the attack means that adversaries do not require physical access to the system or local network privileges to exploit this vulnerability, making it particularly dangerous for publicly accessible web applications. Organizations running affected Drupal versions face significant risk of data breaches, service disruption, and potential regulatory compliance violations, as the vulnerability can be exploited without requiring advanced technical skills or privileged access to the target environment.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability center on immediate version updates and configuration adjustments. The most effective solution involves upgrading to the patched versions of the CKEditor module, specifically 6.x-2.3 for the 6.x-2.x branch, 6.x-1.9 for the 6.x-1.x branch, and 7.x-1.7 for the 7.x-1.x branch. Administrators should also consider disabling the PHP module when it is not strictly required for functionality, as this eliminates one of the key prerequisites for exploitation. Additional protective measures include implementing robust input validation at multiple layers, configuring proper access controls, and monitoring for suspicious user activity or unusual content submissions. Organizations should also consider deploying web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems to monitor for exploitation attempts. The vulnerability highlights the importance of keeping content management systems and their modules updated, as well as maintaining proper security hygiene and regular vulnerability assessments to prevent similar issues from compromising system security.