Zenario CMS is a popular content management system used for managing websites and content online. Unfortunately, in version 9.3.57186, a dangerous security flaw was found—CVE-2022-44136—which can allow hackers to take full control over the server by executing their own code remotely. In this article, we'll break down the vulnerability in simple language, show you how the exploit works, provide code snippets, and link you to the original resources for even more reading.

What is CVE-2022-44136?

CVE-2022-44136 has been assigned to a critical vulnerability in Zenario CMS 9.3.57186 that enables Remote Code Execution (RCE). RCE bugs are especially dangerous because attackers can run any command or code they want on the server—effectively owning it.

Summary:  
An attacker can craft a special HTTP request that tricks Zenario into executing malicious PHP code on the server. This is often because user input isn't properly filtered before being passed to dangerous PHP functions like eval() or included using include() or require().

Where is the Problem?

In this version of Zenario, there is a file called /zenario/libs/manually_maintained/externals/SomeFile.php (file and path may vary), where user input is included insecurely. Below is a simplified version of the problematic code:

// Example: vulnerable code in Zenario CMS
if (isset($_GET['template'])) {
    // BAD: Using unfiltered user input in include()
    include $_GET['template'];
}

If an attacker sets the template parameter to a script they control (or sometimes even a built-in file with code injection), Zenario will include and execute it, running whatever the attacker wants.

`php

// shell.php - a basic PHP web shell

`

http://target.site.com/zenario/index.php?template=../shell.php

`

http://target.site.com/zenario/index.php?template=../shell.php&cmd=whoami

`

This simple attack gives the attacker a way to execute system commands, upload more files, or even escalate their attack further.

Real-World Impact

If you are running Zenario CMS 9.3.57186 and haven't patched or protected your site, anyone on the Internet can:

- Read sensitive files (like config files or /etc/passwd)

Update Zenario CMS immediately to the latest version where this bug is fixed.

2. Block public access to your /zenario/ directory if it's not needed.

References & Further Reading

- NVD CVE Detail Page for CVE-2022-44136
- Vuldb Entry on CVE-2022-44136
- Packet Storm Security Advisory
- Zenario CMS Official Website

Final Thoughts

CVE-2022-44136 is a very serious security problem. Remote Code Execution is about as bad as it gets—it gives attackers full power over your website and server. Make sure to patch immediately. If you’re a developer, always filter and sanitize any input you use with PHP’s include, require, or anything similar.

Timeline

Published on: 11/30/2022 15:15:00 UTC
Last modified on: 12/02/2022 16:13:00 UTC