CVE-2009-4018: n/a vulnerability

CVE-2009-4018: The proc_open function in ext/standard/proc_open.c in PHP before 5.2.11 and 5.3.x before 5.3.1 does not enf...

The proc_open function in ext/standard/proc_open.c in PHP before 5.2.11 and 5.3.x before 5.3.1 does not enforce the (1) safe_mode_allowed_env_vars and (2) safe_mode_protected_env_vars directives, which allows context-dependent attackers to execute programs with an arbitrary environment via the env parameter, as demonstrated by a crafted value of the LD_LIBRARY_PATH environment variable.

UnknownCVSS not scoredNot KEV-listedUpdatedAug 7, 2024, 06:45 UTC (UTC+00:00)

Security readout for executives and security teams

CVE-2009-4018 is an old PHP vulnerability affecting PHP before 5.2.11 and 5.3.x before 5.3.1. Under certain application conditions, PHP’s proc_open function could ignore safe_mode environment restrictions, letting an attacker influence the environment of executed programs. This matters mainly for legacy PHP systems still running affected versions. Exposure is likely limited to legacy PHP 5.2 or early 5.3 deployments, especially applications using proc_open while relying on safe_mode environment restrictions. Systems on modern PHP branches are not indicated as affected by the provided sources. Treat as a legacy-risk cleanup item unless affected PHP versions are internet-facing or business-critical. Prioritize remediation for systems still running PHP 5.2.x or 5.3.0, because they are far beyond normal support expectations and may carry additional unaddressed risks. Mitigation focus: Identify PHP versions below 5.2.11 or 5.3.1.; Upgrade PHP to a fixed or currently supported version.; Check operating system vendor advisories for backported PHP fixes..

Prepared: Jun 28, 2026, 14:15 UTC (UTC+00:00)

Generated from the cited source records. This long-tail analysis has not been individually reviewed by a named human.

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Vulnerability profileCVE Program record

Severity: Unknown
CVSS: Not scored
Known Exploited: No
Published: Nov 27, 2009, 19:00 UTC (UTC+00:00)

Official CVE source material

CNA and ADP enrichment extracted from CVE v5

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2Source links

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Source materials

CVE List V5 sourceCVE List V5
oval:org.mitre.oval:def:7256CVE reference · vdb-entry, signature

Affected products

Products and packages named in the record

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