CVE-2026-16767 in php-zip
Summary
by MITRE • 07/24/2026
A vulnerability was detected in Ne-Lexa php-zip up to 4.0.2. This affects the function ZipFile::extractTo of the file src/ZipFile.php of the component ZIP Handler. Performing a manipulation of the argument entryName results in path traversal. It is possible to initiate the attack remotely. The exploit is now public and may be used. The project was informed of the problem early through an issue report but has not responded yet.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/24/2026
The vulnerability in Ne-Lexa php-zip version 4.0.2 represents a critical path traversal flaw within the ZipFile::extractTo function that resides in the src/ZipFile.php component. This security weakness stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization of the entryName parameter, which allows attackers to manipulate file paths during decompression operations. The vulnerability specifically affects the ZIP Handler component's ability to properly process archive entries, creating an opportunity for unauthorized file system access and potential arbitrary code execution.
The technical implementation of this flaw occurs when the ZipFile::extractTo function processes user-supplied entryName arguments without proper validation of directory traversal sequences such as ../ or ..\. This allows malicious actors to specify paths that escape the intended extraction directory, potentially overwriting critical system files or creating backdoors. The vulnerability is classified as a path traversal attack pattern and aligns with CWE-22 (Improper Limitation of a Pathname to a Restricted Directory) which is commonly exploited in archive handling components. The attack vector is particularly dangerous because it can be executed remotely, meaning that an attacker does not need physical access to the system but can exploit the vulnerability through network-based interactions.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple file access violations and can result in complete system compromise if attackers leverage the path traversal capability effectively. An attacker could potentially overwrite configuration files, inject malicious code into executable components, or establish persistent access points within the target environment. The fact that a public exploit exists significantly increases the risk profile as it eliminates the need for advanced exploitation techniques and allows even less sophisticated threat actors to successfully compromise affected systems. This vulnerability particularly affects web applications that utilize php-zip for processing user-uploaded archives, creating a direct attack surface where malicious files can be uploaded and then executed through the vulnerable extraction process.
Security professionals should immediately implement mitigations including input validation of all entryName parameters, restricting write permissions on directories where archive extraction occurs, and applying the latest available patches from the project maintainers. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper parameter sanitization in file handling operations and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 (Command and Scripting Interpreter: PowerShell) when attackers attempt to leverage path traversal for privilege escalation or persistence mechanisms. Organizations using this component should conduct immediate vulnerability assessments across their infrastructure, monitor for suspicious file system activities, and implement network-level controls to prevent unauthorized archive processing operations. The delayed response from the project maintainers after initial reporting creates additional risk as organizations cannot rely on timely official patches and must implement defensive measures proactively to protect against the known exploit.