CVE-2005-3738 in Site Server
Summary
by MITRE
globals.php in Mambo Site Server 4.0.14 and earlier, when register_globals is disabled, allows remote attackers to overwrite variables in the GLOBALS array and conduct various attacks, as demonstrated using the mosConfig_absolute_path parameter to content.html.php for remote PHP file inclusion.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/14/2025
The vulnerability described in CVE-2005-3738 represents a critical variable overwrite flaw in Mambo Site Server version 4.0.14 and earlier, specifically when the PHP register_globals directive is disabled. This issue stems from improper input validation and variable handling within the globals.php file, which serves as a central configuration and variable management component for the Mambo CMS. The vulnerability arises from the application's failure to properly sanitize and validate user-supplied input parameters before incorporating them into the GLOBALS array, creating a dangerous condition where remote attackers can manipulate internal application variables through crafted HTTP requests.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through manipulation of the mosConfig_absolute_path parameter within the content.html.php file, which is processed by globals.php. When register_globals is disabled, the normal PHP behavior of automatically creating global variables from GET, POST, and COOKIE data is prevented. However, the Mambo application's flawed implementation allows attackers to directly influence the GLOBALS array contents by injecting malicious parameters, effectively bypassing the intended security protections. This creates a scenario where attackers can overwrite critical system variables and subsequently execute arbitrary code through remote PHP file inclusion attacks, as demonstrated in the exploitation chain.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution to encompass full system compromise capabilities. Attackers can leverage this flaw to gain unauthorized access to the web server, potentially leading to data breaches, system infiltration, and complete server control. The vulnerability's exploitation does not require authentication, making it particularly dangerous as it can be exploited by anyone with access to the affected web application. The remote PHP file inclusion aspect of the attack vector allows for arbitrary code execution in the context of the web server, potentially enabling attackers to establish persistent backdoors, exfiltrate sensitive data, or perform further reconnaissance activities. This vulnerability directly aligns with CWE-119, which addresses improper restriction of operations within a limited error handling scope, and represents a classic example of insecure input handling that can lead to privilege escalation and arbitrary code execution.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on immediate patching of the Mambo Site Server application to version 4.0.15 or later, which contains the necessary fixes for the variable overwrite issue. System administrators should also implement input validation and sanitization measures at the web server level, including the use of mod_security rules to detect and block malicious parameter injection attempts. Additionally, the PHP configuration should be reviewed to ensure that register_globals is properly disabled and that proper input validation is implemented throughout the application. Network segmentation and firewall rules should be configured to limit access to administrative interfaces and sensitive application components. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of following secure coding practices such as those outlined in the OWASP Secure Coding Guidelines, particularly regarding input validation, variable handling, and proper error management. Organizations should conduct thorough security assessments of their web applications to identify similar vulnerabilities and implement comprehensive security monitoring to detect potential exploitation attempts. This vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper variable scoping and input validation in web applications, serving as a reminder of the dangers associated with legacy code that does not properly account for modern security practices and the potential for remote code execution through seemingly simple parameter manipulation attacks.