CVE-2005-3639 in Help Center Live
Summary
by MITRE
PHP file inclusion vulnerability in the osTicket module in Help Center Live before 2.0.3 allows remote attackers to access or include arbitrary files via the file parameter, possibly due to a directory traversal vulnerability.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/22/2025
The CVE-2005-3639 vulnerability represents a critical file inclusion flaw within the Help Center Live osTicket module version prior to 2.0.3, exposing systems to remote code execution and unauthorized file access. This vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and improper handling of file parameters within the application's file inclusion mechanisms. The issue specifically affects the file parameter processing logic which fails to properly sanitize user-supplied input, creating an avenue for attackers to manipulate the application's file handling routines. The vulnerability operates by allowing remote attackers to specify arbitrary file paths through the vulnerable parameter, potentially enabling them to access sensitive system files or include malicious code from remote locations. This type of vulnerability falls under the category of insecure file inclusion as defined by CWE-88, which specifically addresses the risk of including files based on untrusted input without proper validation. The flaw demonstrates characteristics of directory traversal attacks as outlined in CWE-22, where attackers can manipulate path references to access files outside of the intended directory structure.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability requires an attacker to craft malicious input that can bypass the application's normal file access controls. When the application processes the file parameter without adequate sanitization, it can be coerced into including files from unexpected locations on the filesystem. This creates a pathway for attackers to potentially execute arbitrary code, access configuration files containing database credentials, or retrieve sensitive information from the server. The impact extends beyond simple file access, as successful exploitation can lead to complete system compromise and unauthorized access to the underlying infrastructure. The vulnerability's presence in the osTicket module indicates a broader issue with how the application handles file operations and parameter validation, particularly in versions predating 2.0.3. This flaw aligns with ATT&CK technique T1505.003 for "Download and Execute" and T1566.001 for "Phishing" as attackers can leverage this vulnerability to deliver malicious payloads through compromised file inclusion mechanisms.
The operational impact of CVE-2005-3639 is severe and far-reaching for organizations utilizing affected Help Center Live installations. Systems exposed to this vulnerability face potential data breaches, unauthorized access to sensitive information, and complete system compromise. The vulnerability's remote exploitability means that attackers can target affected systems from outside the network perimeter, eliminating the need for physical access or internal network presence. Organizations running vulnerable versions of the osTicket module must consider the possibility of persistent threats, as successful exploitation can provide attackers with a foothold for further reconnaissance and lateral movement within the network. The vulnerability also poses risks to data integrity and confidentiality, as attackers can potentially read or modify critical system files and configuration data. Network monitoring should be enhanced to detect anomalous file access patterns and unusual parameter usage that might indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability's age and the specific version affected suggest that organizations may have legacy systems running without proper security updates, creating additional risk exposure.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2005-3639 focus primarily on immediate patching and implementation of proper input validation controls. The most effective immediate solution involves upgrading to Help Center Live version 2.0.3 or later, which contains the necessary security fixes to address the file inclusion vulnerability. Organizations should also implement input validation mechanisms that sanitize all user-supplied parameters before processing, particularly those used in file inclusion operations. Web application firewalls can provide additional protection by filtering suspicious parameter values and blocking known malicious patterns. Access controls should be implemented to restrict file inclusion operations to specific, trusted directories and prevent traversal outside of intended file structures. Regular security audits and penetration testing should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other applications and modules within the organization's infrastructure. Security configuration reviews should ensure that file inclusion operations are properly restricted and that the principle of least privilege is maintained for all application components. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining up-to-date security patches and implementing robust input validation as fundamental security controls that align with industry standards such as those recommended by NIST and OWASP for preventing common web application vulnerabilities.