CVE-2024-42007 in php-spx
Summary
by MITRE • 07/26/2024
SPX (aka php-spx) through 0.4.15 allows SPX_UI_URI Directory Traversal to read arbitrary files.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/15/2025
The vulnerability in SPX (php-spx) versions 0.4.15 and earlier represents a critical directory traversal flaw that enables attackers to access arbitrary files on the target system through the SPX_UI_URI parameter. This issue stems from insufficient input validation and sanitization within the web interface component of the PHP profiling extension, creating an opportunity for unauthorized file access that can potentially expose sensitive system information.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs when the application fails to properly validate user-supplied input passed through the SPX_UI_URI parameter. Attackers can manipulate this parameter to traverse directory structures and access files outside the intended web root or application boundaries. The flaw operates by constructing malicious paths that bypass normal access controls, allowing read operations on files that should remain protected. This type of vulnerability is classified as CWE-22 according to the Common Weakness Enumeration catalog, which specifically addresses improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it can potentially lead to exposure of configuration files, database credentials, source code, and other sensitive artifacts. An attacker with access to the vulnerable system can exploit this flaw to gain insights into the application architecture, underlying infrastructure, and potential attack vectors for further exploitation. The vulnerability affects any system running SPX versions prior to 0.4.16, making it particularly concerning for environments where profiling tools are actively deployed.
From an ATT&CK framework perspective, this vulnerability maps to T1566.002 (Phishing with Malicious Attachments) and T1083 (File and Directory Discovery) as attackers can use the traversal capability to discover sensitive files. The attack chain typically begins with reconnaissance through profiling tools and progresses to file access and potential privilege escalation. Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including upgrading to SPX version 0.4.16 or later, implementing proper input validation for all user-supplied parameters, and restricting access to profiling interfaces to trusted networks only.
The remediation strategy involves not only updating the vulnerable software component but also implementing comprehensive network segmentation to limit exposure of profiling tools to untrusted users. Security controls should include validating all input parameters against a whitelist of acceptable values, implementing proper access controls for profiling interfaces, and monitoring for suspicious file access patterns. Additionally, regular security assessments should verify that no other similar directory traversal vulnerabilities exist within the application stack, as these flaws often indicate broader issues with input validation practices across the system.