CVE-2017-9080 in PlaySMS
Summary
by MITRE
PlaySMS 1.4 allows remote code execution because PHP code in the name of an uploaded .php file is executed. sendfromfile.php has a combination of Unrestricted File Upload and Code Injection.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/03/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-9080 affects PlaySMS version 1.4 and represents a critical remote code execution flaw that stems from improper file validation and handling within the application's file upload functionality. This issue specifically manifests in the sendfromfile.php component where the system fails to adequately sanitize file names before processing uploaded content. The vulnerability enables attackers to upload malicious PHP files with arbitrary names that contain executable code, which then gets executed by the web server. This represents a classic case of unrestricted file upload combined with code injection, creating a pathway for remote attackers to execute arbitrary commands on the affected system.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through the manipulation of file upload parameters in the sendfromfile.php script. When a user uploads a file, the application does not properly validate or sanitize the file name, allowing an attacker to include PHP code within the file name itself. This code injection occurs because the application processes the uploaded file name without proper sanitization, leading to execution of malicious code when the file is accessed or processed. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it bypasses traditional security controls by leveraging the legitimate file upload mechanism to execute code directly on the server.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability creates significant risk for organizations using PlaySMS 1.4 as it allows remote attackers to gain complete control over the affected server. The impact extends beyond simple code execution to include potential data exfiltration, system compromise, and lateral movement within network environments. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to establish persistent access, deploy additional malware, or use the compromised system as a staging area for further attacks. The vulnerability's remote nature means that attackers do not require physical access or local network presence to exploit the flaw, making it particularly dangerous for publicly accessible systems.
The security implications of CVE-2017-9080 align with CWE-434 which describes unrestricted upload of executable code, and represents a direct violation of secure coding practices. This vulnerability can be mapped to ATT&CK technique T1190 which covers exploits for execution through the use of malicious files. Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including disabling file upload functionality, implementing strict file name validation, and deploying web application firewalls to detect and block malicious file upload attempts. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of input validation and proper sanitization of all user-supplied data, particularly in file handling operations. Regular security updates and patch management are essential to prevent exploitation of this and similar vulnerabilities in web applications.