Remote Code Execution in PHP

Two critical vulnerabilities CVE-2026-109618 and CVE-2026-109619 (widely tracked as the "php2shell" exploit) have been identified in PHP, a widely used programming language that powers countless websites and web applications. These flaws could allow malicious cyber actors to remotely execute code directly in the PHP core, potentially compromising sensitive data and networks.
The FBI urges organizations to take the following steps now:

Patch or Pause
Immediately update affected PHP installations following the official guidance on php.net. (The project has released patches in versions 8.5.12, 8.4.27, 8.3.36, and 8.2.35). If an immediate update is not feasible, it is heavily recommended that organizations take the system offline until it can be fully mitigated.

Inventory Your Environment
Identify exactly where PHP runs across your infrastructure, prioritizing internet-facing systems and third-party vendor products that bundle PHP.

Monitor for Suspicious Activity
Actively monitor web servers for anomalies, particularly PHP processes unexpectedly launching command shells or downloading files. Ensure appropriate process-monitoring capabilities are in place to help catch potential exploitation early.

Isolate and Report
If you find signs of compromise:
 * Isolate the affected systems immediately.
 * Preserve your web server and PHP logs.
 * Report the incident to your local FBI field office or via www.ic3.gov.
(Your reports are critical they help authorities identify the threat actors involved and warn other organizations before they become victims.)
For the latest information, follow:
 * PHP's official announcements on php.net
 * CERT-EU Security Advisory 2026-018
 * CISA's Known Exploited Vulnerabilities catalog
Time is of the essence. Please share this with your IT, Engineering, and SecOps teams to ensure your infrastructure remains secure!
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