CVE-2014-2922 in Pimcore
Summary
by MITRE
The getObjectByToken function in Newsletter.php in the Pimcore_Tool_Newsletter module in pimcore 1.4.9 through 2.1.0 does not properly handle an object obtained by unserializing a pathname, which allows remote attackers to conduct PHP object injection attacks and delete arbitrary files via vectors involving a Zend_Http_Response_Stream object.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/11/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2014-2922 resides within the Pimcore content management platform, specifically in the Newsletter.php file of the Pimcore_Tool_Newsletter module. This flaw affects versions ranging from 1.4.9 through 2.1.0, representing a significant security gap that could be exploited by remote attackers to execute arbitrary code on affected systems. The vulnerability stems from improper handling of serialized data during object reconstruction processes, creating a pathway for malicious actors to manipulate the application's behavior through crafted input.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs within the getObjectByToken function where the application attempts to unserialize a pathname parameter. When an attacker provides a maliciously crafted serialized object, the unserialization process fails to properly validate or sanitize the input before using it in subsequent operations. This particular flaw involves a Zend_Http_Response_Stream object that can be manipulated to cause unintended file operations. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-502 which catalogs weaknesses related to deserialization of untrusted data, and represents a classic example of PHP object injection where attacker-controlled data is deserialized without proper security checks.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution to include arbitrary file deletion capabilities, making it particularly dangerous for content management systems that handle sensitive data. Attackers could potentially delete critical application files, configuration data, or even system files depending on the privileges of the web application. This vulnerability could be exploited to compromise the entire Pimcore installation, potentially leading to complete system takeover or data loss. The remote nature of the attack means that exploitation does not require local system access, making it accessible to any attacker with network connectivity to the affected system.
Security professionals should consider this vulnerability in the context of the ATT&CK framework, specifically under the T1059.007 technique for PHP injection and T1490 for deletion of files and data. The vulnerability creates a persistent threat vector that could be combined with other attack techniques to establish long-term access or cause significant operational disruption. Organizations using affected Pimcore versions should immediately implement mitigation strategies including input validation, proper object serialization handling, and application firewalls to prevent exploitation. The recommended approach involves upgrading to patched versions of Pimcore where the unserialization process has been properly secured with appropriate validation checks and sanitization routines to prevent unauthorized object reconstruction.