CVE-2005-10004 in Cacti
Summary
by MITRE • 08/30/2025
Cacti versions prior to 0.8.6-d contain a remote command execution vulnerability in the graph_view.php script. An authenticated user can inject arbitrary shell commands via the graph_start GET parameter, which is improperly handled during graph rendering. This flaw allows attackers to execute commands on the underlying operating system with the privileges of the web server process, potentially compromising system integrity.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/03/2026
The vulnerability described in CVE-2005-10004 represents a critical remote command execution flaw affecting Cacti monitoring software versions prior to 0.8.6-d. This vulnerability specifically targets the graph_view.php script which serves as a core component for displaying network graph data within the Cacti web interface. The flaw stems from improper input validation and sanitization of user-supplied parameters, creating a pathway for malicious command injection attacks. Security researchers have classified this issue under CWE-77 which specifically addresses improper neutralization of special elements used in commands, making it a classic command injection vulnerability that has persisted across numerous software platforms throughout the years.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through the graph_start GET parameter which is processed during the graph rendering phase of the web application. When an authenticated user submits a malicious value through this parameter, the application fails to properly sanitize the input before incorporating it into system commands for graph generation. This improper handling creates a direct execution path where attacker-controlled commands can be passed to the underlying operating system shell. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it requires only authentication to the Cacti system, meaning that an attacker who can establish a valid session can execute arbitrary commands with the privileges of the web server process. This privilege level typically provides access to sensitive system resources, file operations, and potentially allows for further escalation within the network infrastructure.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple command execution, as it fundamentally compromises the integrity and confidentiality of the monitored environment. An attacker with access to the Cacti web interface can potentially gain complete control over the server hosting the monitoring application, enabling them to access network data, modify monitoring configurations, or even use the compromised system as a launch point for attacks against other network segments. The vulnerability affects not just the Cacti application itself but the entire underlying infrastructure it monitors, creating a potential attack vector for lateral movement within enterprise networks where monitoring systems are often considered trusted components. This type of vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059 which covers command and scripting interpreter, specifically targeting the execution of commands through web-based interfaces.
Organizations affected by this vulnerability should immediately implement multiple layers of mitigation strategies to protect their systems. The primary recommendation involves upgrading to Cacti version 0.8.6-d or later, which includes proper input validation and sanitization mechanisms that prevent command injection attacks. Additionally, network administrators should implement strict access controls and authentication measures to limit who can access the Cacti web interface, reducing the attack surface for potential exploitation. The implementation of web application firewalls and input filtering rules can provide additional protection layers, while regular security audits and monitoring of web server logs should be conducted to detect any suspicious activity. Security teams should also consider implementing principle of least privilege configurations for the web server process, ensuring that the compromised system cannot perform operations beyond its essential monitoring functions. This vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper input validation and sanitization in web applications, serving as a reminder that even authenticated access can be dangerous if proper security controls are not implemented to prevent command injection attacks.