CVE-2005-3366 in PHP iCalendar
Summary
by MITRE
PHP file inclusion vulnerability in index.php in PHP iCalendar 2.0a2 through 2.0.1 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code and include arbitrary local files via the phpicalendar cookie. NOTE: this is not a cross-site scripting (XSS) issue as claimed by the original researcher.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/10/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2005-3366 represents a critical server-side include flaw in PHP iCalendar version 2.0a2 through 2.0.1, specifically within the index.php script. This vulnerability stems from improper input validation and sanitization of the phpicalendar cookie parameter, which is processed without adequate security controls. The flaw allows remote attackers to manipulate the cookie value in such a way that it influences how PHP handles file inclusion operations, creating a pathway for arbitrary code execution and local file inclusion attacks.
This vulnerability operates at the intersection of multiple security domains, primarily classified under CWE-98 as "Improper Control of Generation of Code ('Code Injection')" and CWE-22 as "Improper Limitation of a Pathname to a Restricted Directory ('Path Traversal'). The attack vector specifically leverages the cookie parameter to inject malicious file paths or code segments that get processed by PHP's include or require functions. The original researcher's misclassification as XSS demonstrates the complexity of vulnerability analysis where different attack surfaces can appear similar but require distinct mitigation approaches.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution to encompass full system compromise potential. Attackers can leverage this flaw to include arbitrary local files, potentially accessing sensitive system information, executing malicious code, or establishing persistent access points. The vulnerability affects the web application's file handling mechanisms, allowing attackers to bypass normal access controls and potentially escalate privileges. The exposure occurs during normal application operation when the cookie value is processed, making detection difficult and exploitation straightforward for skilled attackers.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2005-3366 should focus on immediate patching of the affected PHP iCalendar versions, as the vulnerability was resolved in subsequent releases. Organizations must implement strict input validation and sanitization for all cookie parameters, particularly those used in file inclusion contexts. Security measures should include disabling the use of user-controllable data in include operations, implementing proper path validation, and using absolute paths instead of relative ones. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under T1059.007 for "Command and Scripting Interpreter: PowerShell" and T1068 for "Exploitation for Privilege Escalation" when considering the potential for privilege escalation through code execution. Additionally, network segmentation and web application firewalls can provide additional defense-in-depth layers to prevent exploitation attempts and limit the impact of successful attacks.