In PHP versions from 8.1.* before 8.1.32, from 8.2.* before 8.2.28, from 8.3.* before 8.3.19, and from 8.4.* before 8.4.5, a vulnerability allows for incorrect handling of the content-type header during HTTP resource requests using the DOM or SimpleXML extensions. This vulnerability allows attackers to manipulate the charset determination when the requested resource performs a redirect, potentially causing the resulting document to be parsed incorrectly or bypass validations.
The vulnerability has a CVSS score of 6.3, classified as medium severity. Organizations utilizing affected PHP versions should prioritize remediation due to the potential risk to their applications and systems. The exploitation status indicates that a known exploit exists, necessitating prompt action.
Risk to organizations includes potential data corruption and bypassing of critical validations, which could lead to unauthorized information access or service disruption. Organizations should address this vulnerability in their priority patch cycle.
Immediate action is recommended to mitigate potential impacts associated with this vulnerability. It is crucial to ensure that systems are updated to secure versions of PHP.
Vulnerability Details
The vulnerability described in CVE-2025-1219 affects PHP versions prior to the specified patches for 8.1, 8.2, 8.3, and 8.4. It is classified under CWE-1116, which pertains to the use of an incorrect content-type header. The vulnerability was published on March 30, 2025, and has been modified since.
Technical Analysis
The root cause of this vulnerability stems from the incorrect handling of content-type headers in the DOM and SimpleXML extensions when a redirect occurs. This flaw allows an attacker to control how documents are parsed, which could lead to various consequences depending on the application context.
The attack vector is classified as network-based, with a high complexity requirement for exploitation. No privileges are required, and user interaction is not needed for an attack to be successful. The vulnerability primarily impacts confidentiality, allowing for potential data exposure, while integrity and availability impacts are minimal.
Risk & Impact Analysis
Organizations running vulnerable versions of PHP face significant risks, particularly related to data integrity and application reliability. The ability for attackers to manipulate content parsing can lead to data corruption or unauthorized access to sensitive information. Given the nature of web applications and their reliance on PHP, the potential blast radius is considerable.
The urgency for remediation is classified as medium, and organizations should schedule patching as part of their regular maintenance cycle.
Exploitation Status
Signal | Status |
|---|---|
Known Exploit | Yes |
Public PoC | Yes |
Actively Exploited | No |
Ransomware Use | No |
Affected Versions
The affected versions include PHP 8.1.* prior to 8.1.32, 8.2.* prior to 8.2.28, 8.3.* prior to 8.3.19, and 8.4.* prior to 8.4.5. Organizations should ensure they update to the latest versions to mitigate this vulnerability.
Mitigation & Remediation
To remediate this vulnerability, organizations should update to the latest patched versions of PHP. For those unable to immediately apply the patches, workarounds may include monitoring the use of the DOM and SimpleXML extensions and implementing strict validation of content-type headers in HTTP requests.
For comprehensive testing and validation, organizations are encouraged to consider penetration testing services to ensure that all potential security issues are addressed.
Detection Guidance
Organizations should monitor logs for anomalies that may indicate exploitation of this vulnerability. Key indicators may include unexpected redirects, altered content-type headers in HTTP requests, and irregular document parsing behaviors.
AppSecure Threat Intelligence Insight
The long-term significance of this vulnerability highlights the need for continued vigilance in the management of content-type headers during HTTP requests. Security teams should recognize patterns of vulnerabilities that stem from improper handling of user inputs and external requests.
To further enhance security, organizations should engage in penetration testing methodology to proactively identify and mitigate similar vulnerabilities.
This vulnerability serves as a reminder for organizations to implement comprehensive security reviews and to stay updated on the latest security practices to counter emerging threats.
Lastly, organizations should also consider adopting a continuous security approach to ensure ongoing protection against vulnerabilities by leveraging continuous penetration testing to keep their systems resilient against attacks.
Disclaimer: This content was generated using AI. While we strive for accuracy, please verify critical information with official sources.
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