ThinkPHP Under Fire: Remote Code Execution Vulnerability CVE-2025-63888

Overview

CVE-2025-63888 describes a critical remote code execution (RCE) vulnerability affecting ThinkPHP version 5.0.24. This flaw resides within the read function of the File.php file, specifically located at thinkphp\library\think\template\driver\File.php. An attacker can exploit this vulnerability to execute arbitrary code on the server, potentially leading to complete system compromise.

Technical Details

The vulnerability lies in how ThinkPHP 5.0.24 handles template file reading. A crafted request can manipulate the read function to include and execute arbitrary PHP code. The exact exploitation method is detailed in the provided references, but essentially, by controlling specific input parameters, an attacker can inject malicious code into the template parsing process. The File.php driver is responsible for reading template files, and improper sanitization or validation of input within this function allows for the RCE. This typically involves manipulating the template path or filename in a way that allows the attacker to include a file containing malicious PHP code.

CVSS Analysis

Currently, a CVSS score is not available (N/A) for CVE-2025-63888. However, given the nature of a remote code execution vulnerability, it is highly likely to be rated as critical severity once a score is assigned. Expect a CVSS score in the range of 9.0-10.0.

Possible Impact

The impact of CVE-2025-63888 is significant. Successful exploitation allows an attacker to:

• Gain complete control of the affected server.
• Steal sensitive data, including database credentials, user information, and application secrets.
• Modify website content, deface the website, or inject malicious code.
• Use the compromised server as a launchpad for further attacks within the network.
• Disrupt services and cause denial of service (DoS).

Mitigation or Patch Steps

1. Upgrade ThinkPHP: The most effective mitigation is to upgrade to a patched version of ThinkPHP that addresses this vulnerability. Check the ThinkPHP official website for the latest version and release notes. While specific patched versions aren’t mentioned in the provided context, upgrading is always the best practice.
2. Input Validation and Sanitization: Implement robust input validation and sanitization throughout your application, particularly when handling file paths or template names. Ensure that user-supplied input is properly sanitized and validated to prevent malicious code injection.
3. Web Application Firewall (WAF): Deploy a Web Application Firewall (WAF) to detect and block malicious requests targeting this vulnerability. Configure the WAF with rules to identify and block attempts to exploit the read function.
4. Restrict File Access: Limit the permissions of the web server user to only access the necessary files and directories. This can help prevent attackers from accessing sensitive files or writing malicious code to the server.

References

PoC Exploit Details (GitHub Gist)
Vulnerability Analysis (Yuque)