Code Injection and Remote Execution in contao/core

contao/core Updated 02 Oct 2025

Summary

15/05/2024
CRITICAL
Yes i
Critical
9.0

GHSA-wxxw-5gq6-j2g5: contao/core Insufficient input validation allows for code injection and remote execution. Affects contao/core across 2 version ranges.

>= 2.0.0, < 2.11.17 >= 3.0.0, < 3.2.9

Fixed in 2.11.17 or 3.2.9, depending on the release line you run. How to fix ↓

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Background

contao/core is an open-source package available on Packagist. It is a popular content management system (CMS) used for creating and managing websites. The package provides various functionalities for website development, including user management, page creation, and content organization. However, versions 2.x prior to 2.11.17 and 3.x prior to 3.2.9 of contao/core are vulnerable to a critical security issue that allows for code injection and remote execution.

Vulnerability Detail

The vulnerability in contao/core arises from insufficient input validation. Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by entering a URL, which can result in the removal or modification of the pathconfig.php file. This can render the entire Contao installation inaccessible or allow for the execution of malicious code. The impact of this vulnerability can be severe, leading to unauthorized access, data breaches, and potential compromise of the entire system.

How To Fix

Fixed versions by release line

The minimum fixed version depends on the release line you run.

  • >= 2.0.0, < 2.11.17 2.11.17
    composer require contao/core:2.11.17
  • >= 3.0.0, < 3.2.9 3.2.9
    composer require contao/core:3.2.9

Tip — Not sure which release line you're on? Vulert can find the fix for the version you are using. Scan free →

Workaround

There is no known workaround for this vulnerability. It is crucial to update to the fixed versions as soon as possible to mitigate the risk of exploitation.

Conclusion

The code injection and remote execution vulnerability in contao/core can have severe consequences, including unauthorized access and data breaches. It is crucial to update to the fixed versions (2.11.17 or later for versions 2.x, and 3.2.9 or later for versions 3.x) to mitigate the risk. For further support on vulnerability remediation, please contact DevNack.com.

See every vulnerability recorded for contao/core →

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FAQ

contao/core is an open-source content management system (CMS) used for website development.

Versions 2.x prior to 2.11.17 and 3.x prior to 3.2.9 are affected.

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by entering a URL, allowing them to remove or modify the pathconfig.php file and potentially execute malicious code.

The consequences of this vulnerability can include unauthorized access, data breaches, and compromise of the entire system.

No, there is no known workaround. It is essential to update to the fixed versions to mitigate the risk.

Related vulnerabilities

Recent vulnerabilities recorded for contao/core.

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How To Fix

Fixed versions by release line

The minimum fixed version depends on the release line you run.

  • >= 2.0.0, < 2.11.17 2.11.17
    composer require contao/core:2.11.17
  • >= 3.0.0, < 3.2.9 3.2.9
    composer require contao/core:3.2.9

Tip — Not sure which release line you're on? Vulert can find the fix for the version you are using. Scan free →

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