CVE-2005-3048 in PhpMyFaq
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in index.php in PhpMyFaq 1.5.1 allows remote attackers to read arbitrary files or include arbitrary PHP files via a .. (dot dot) in the LANGCODE parameter, which also allows direct code injection via the User Agent field in a request packet, which can be activated by using LANGCODE to reference the user tracking data file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/18/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2005-3048 represents a critical directory traversal flaw in PhpMyFaq version 1.5.1 that exposes the application to remote code execution and arbitrary file access. This vulnerability specifically affects the index.php script where the LANGCODE parameter is processed without adequate input validation, creating an opportunity for attackers to manipulate file paths and access sensitive system resources. The flaw stems from improper sanitization of user-supplied input that is directly incorporated into file system operations, allowing malicious actors to traverse directory structures beyond the intended application boundaries. The vulnerability operates through the exploitation of the .. (dot dot) sequence in the LANGCODE parameter, which enables attackers to navigate upward through the directory hierarchy and access files that should remain protected.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability leverages the fundamental weakness in input validation mechanisms within the application's parameter processing logic. When the LANGCODE parameter is passed to the index.php script, the application fails to properly sanitize or validate the input before using it in file system operations. This creates a path traversal condition that allows attackers to reference files outside the intended document root or application directory structure. The vulnerability becomes particularly dangerous when combined with the User Agent field manipulation capabilities, as attackers can leverage the LANGCODE parameter to reference user tracking data files that may contain sensitive information or provide pathways for code injection. This dual exploitation capability transforms a simple directory traversal into a potential full system compromise scenario.
The operational impact of CVE-2005-3048 extends far beyond simple file disclosure, as it provides attackers with multiple attack vectors for system compromise. The ability to include arbitrary PHP files through the directory traversal mechanism creates opportunities for remote code execution, allowing attackers to execute malicious code on the target server with the privileges of the web application. The inclusion of direct code injection via the User Agent field further amplifies the threat, as it enables attackers to manipulate the application's behavior and potentially escalate privileges. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-22, which describes improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, and represents a classic example of how inadequate input validation can lead to catastrophic security implications. The attack surface is particularly concerning given that the vulnerability can be exploited through standard HTTP requests without requiring authentication or specialized tools.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability must address both the immediate directory traversal issue and the broader input validation weaknesses that enable the attack. Organizations should implement strict input validation and sanitization for all user-supplied parameters, particularly those used in file system operations or dynamic path construction. The application should enforce a whitelist approach for acceptable LANGCODE values and reject any input containing directory traversal sequences such as .. or /../. Additionally, proper file access controls and privilege separation should be implemented to prevent unauthorized access to sensitive system files even if traversal attempts are successful. The remediation process should include updating to patched versions of PhpMyFaq, implementing web application firewalls to detect and block suspicious patterns, and conducting comprehensive security assessments of all application components that handle user input. This vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of following secure coding practices and adheres to ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and script injection, highlighting the need for robust input validation as a primary defense mechanism against such attacks.