CVE-2004-2601 in Help Center Live
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in UberTec Help Center Live (HCL) allows remote attackers to read local files and possibly execute PHP code via a URL in the SKIN_inner parameter to inc/skin.php.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/19/2017
The CVE-2004-2601 vulnerability represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw in the UberTec Help Center Live (HCL) software, specifically affecting the inc/skin.php script. This vulnerability stems from improper input validation and sanitization mechanisms that fail to properly restrict user-supplied data from being directly incorporated into file inclusion operations. The flaw manifests when the SKIN_inner parameter receives a URL value that is then processed by the application's file inclusion logic, creating a pathway for malicious actors to manipulate the application's behavior through crafted input.
The technical nature of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-88, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in an expression, and CWE-94, which covers execution of arbitrary code through code injection. The vulnerability operates by allowing attackers to supply a malicious URL through the SKIN_inner parameter, which gets processed by the PHP application's include or require functions. When the application processes this parameter without adequate validation, it can execute arbitrary PHP code or include local files, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The vulnerability exists due to the application's failure to implement proper input sanitization and validation mechanisms before using user-supplied parameters in file inclusion contexts.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it provides attackers with the capability to execute arbitrary PHP code on the target system. This means that an attacker could potentially upload malicious files, access sensitive system information, or even establish persistent backdoors within the compromised environment. The vulnerability affects the availability, integrity, and confidentiality of the system, as it allows for unauthorized access to local files and remote code execution. Organizations running affected versions of UberTec HCL are particularly vulnerable to this type of attack, as the flaw exists in the core application logic that handles skin customization and user interface rendering.
Security mitigations for this vulnerability should focus on implementing proper input validation and sanitization mechanisms. The most effective approach involves removing or disabling the use of user-supplied parameters in file inclusion operations entirely, or implementing strict whitelisting of allowed values. Organizations should ensure that all user inputs are properly validated against a known set of acceptable values before being used in any file inclusion context. Additionally, the application should be configured to disable remote file inclusion features and restrict file operations to local directories only. This vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of following secure coding practices and implementing defense-in-depth strategies to prevent similar flaws in application development. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under T1190 for exploitation of remote services and T1059 for command and scripting interpreter, highlighting the multi-stage attack approach that can be employed by threat actors exploiting such weaknesses.