CVE-2022-21647 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis

CodeIgniter is an open source PHP full-stack web framework that has been affected by a critical vulnerability related to the deserialization of untrusted data in the

old()

function. This vulnerability could allow remote attackers to inject auto-loadable arbitrary objects and potentially execute PHP code on the server.

Understanding CVE-2022-21647

This CVE highlights a significant security issue within CodeIgniter4 related to how untrusted data is deserialized within the framework's

old()

function.

What is CVE-2022-21647?

CVE-2022-21647 is a vulnerability in CodeIgniter4 that enables attackers to introduce malicious auto-loadable objects through the deserialization of untrusted data, potentially leading to the execution of unauthorized PHP code on the server.

The Impact of CVE-2022-21647

The impact of this vulnerability is rated as HIGH with a base score of 7.7. It poses a risk to the integrity and availability of affected systems, allowing for the potential execution of unauthorized code without the need for user interaction.

Technical Details of CVE-2022-21647

This section provides more insights into the technical aspects of the CVE.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises from improper deserialization of untrusted data in the

old()

function in CodeIgniter4, which could be exploited by remote attackers to inject auto-loadable objects and execute PHP code on the server.

Affected Systems and Versions

CodeIgniter4 versions prior to 4.1.6 are affected by this vulnerability. Users using versions older than 4.1.6 are at risk and should take immediate action.

Exploitation Mechanism

The exploitation of this vulnerability involves injecting malicious auto-loadable objects through the deserialization process, potentially leading to the execution of unauthorized PHP code.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems against CVE-2022-21647 requires immediate actions to mitigate the risks posed by this vulnerability.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users are strongly advised to upgrade their CodeIgniter4 installation to version 4.1.6 or later to patch the vulnerability. Additionally, avoiding the use of the

old()

function, form_helper,

RedirectResponse::withInput()

, and

redirect()->withInput()

can help reduce the risk of exploitation.

Long-Term Security Practices

In the long term, developers and system administrators should prioritize regular security assessments, code reviews, and updates to ensure the ongoing security of their CodeIgniter4 applications.

Patching and Updates

Staying informed about security advisories and promptly applying patches and updates released by CodeIgniter4 is crucial to safeguarding systems against known vulnerabilities.