CVE-2005-3519 in MySource
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple PHP file inclusion vulnerabilities in MySource 2.14.0 allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code and include arbitrary local files via the (1) INCLUDE_PATH and (2) SQUIZLIB_PATH parameters in new_upgrade_functions.php, (3) the INCLUDE_PATH parameter in init_mysource.php, and the PEAR_PATH parameter in (4) Socket.php, (5) Request.php, (6) Mail.php, (7) Date.php, (8) Span.php, (9) mimeDecode.php, and (10) mime.php.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/24/2025
The vulnerability described in CVE-2005-3519 represents a critical security flaw in MySource 2.14.0 that exposes multiple file inclusion paths through improper input validation and parameter handling. This vulnerability falls under the category of insecure direct object references and allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code by manipulating specific parameters within various PHP files. The flaw stems from the application's failure to properly sanitize user-supplied input before using it in file inclusion operations, creating a pathway for malicious code execution and unauthorized file access.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs through several distinct attack vectors within the MySource application framework. Attackers can exploit the INCLUDE_PATH parameter in new_upgrade_functions.php and init_mysource.php to manipulate the system's include path, enabling them to load arbitrary local files or execute malicious PHP code. Additionally, the PEAR_PATH parameter in multiple PHP files including Socket.php, Request.php, Mail.php, Date.php, Span.php, mimeDecode.php, and mime.php creates further opportunities for exploitation. These vulnerabilities are particularly dangerous because they leverage the PHP include functionality to load and execute code from locations specified by user input, bypassing normal access controls and security boundaries.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends far beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with complete system compromise capabilities. Successful exploitation can lead to unauthorized access to sensitive data, complete system takeover, and potential lateral movement within network environments where MySource is deployed. The vulnerability enables attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code, which can be used to establish backdoors, exfiltrate data, or perform other malicious activities. Furthermore, the ability to include arbitrary local files means attackers can potentially access system files, configuration data, or other sensitive resources that should remain protected from unauthorized access.
From a cybersecurity perspective, this vulnerability aligns with several ATT&CK framework techniques including TA0002 Execution through the use of command and scripting interpreter, and TA0006 Credential Access through potential data exfiltration. The vulnerability also maps to CWE-98 Improper Control of Generation of Code ('Code Injection') and CWE-22 Improper Limitation of a Pathname to a Restricted Directory ('Path Traversal'). Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including updating to patched versions of MySource, implementing input validation controls, and restricting file inclusion paths to prevent arbitrary code execution. Network segmentation and monitoring for suspicious file inclusion patterns can also help detect and prevent exploitation attempts, while regular security assessments should verify that no similar vulnerabilities exist in other applications within the environment.