CVE-2012-5293 in SAPID CMS
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple PHP remote file inclusion vulnerabilities in SAPID CMS 1.2.3 Stable allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the (1) GLOBALS[root_path] parameter to usr/extensions/get_tree.inc.php or (2) root_path parameter to usr/extensions/get_infochannel.inc.php.
Once again VulDB remains the best source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/08/2025
The vulnerability CVE-2012-5293 represents a critical remote code execution flaw in SAPID CMS version 1.2.3 Stable, specifically targeting remote file inclusion mechanisms within the content management system. This vulnerability exists due to insufficient input validation and sanitization of user-supplied parameters that are directly incorporated into file inclusion operations. The flaw manifests in two distinct locations within the application's extension handling components, making it particularly dangerous as it provides multiple attack vectors for threat actors seeking to compromise the system. The vulnerability is categorized under CWE-98 as "Improper Control of Generation of Code ('Code Injection')" and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190 "Exploit Public-Facing Application" as it targets publicly accessible web application components.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs through the manipulation of specific parameters within the application's extension processing scripts. Attackers can exploit the vulnerability by supplying malicious URLs through either the GLOBALS[root_path] parameter in usr/extensions/get_tree.inc.php or the root_path parameter in usr/extensions/get_infochannel.inc.php. These parameters are directly used in include or require statements without proper validation, allowing attackers to inject arbitrary PHP code execution. The flaw stems from the application's failure to sanitize user input before incorporating it into file inclusion operations, creating a classic remote file inclusion vulnerability that enables attackers to execute arbitrary code on the target server.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and far-reaching, as it provides attackers with complete control over the affected server. Successful exploitation allows remote code execution, enabling attackers to install backdoors, exfiltrate sensitive data, modify content, or use the compromised system as a launch point for further attacks within the network. The vulnerability affects not just the CMS itself but potentially the entire hosting environment, as attackers can leverage the compromised system to pivot to other network resources. This type of vulnerability is particularly dangerous in web hosting environments where multiple websites may be hosted on the same server, potentially allowing attackers to compromise multiple applications through a single successful exploit.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2012-5293 require immediate action to address the core issue of insecure file inclusion practices. Organizations should implement strict input validation and sanitization measures, particularly for parameters used in include or require statements. The recommended approach involves using allowlists of approved values, implementing proper parameter validation, and avoiding dynamic file inclusion based on user input. Additionally, the application should be updated to a patched version that properly sanitizes input parameters before using them in file inclusion operations. Security measures should also include restricting file inclusion to predefined directories and implementing proper access controls to prevent unauthorized file access. From a defensive perspective, this vulnerability highlights the importance of following secure coding practices and adhering to standards such as OWASP Top 10 and the CWE guidelines for preventing code injection vulnerabilities. Network monitoring should be enhanced to detect suspicious file inclusion patterns, and regular security assessments should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other applications within the infrastructure.