CVE-2005-3823 in vTiger
Summary
by MITRE
The Users module in vTiger CRM 4.2 and earlier allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via an arbitrary file in the templatename parameter, which is passed to the eval function.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/12/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2005-3823 represents a critical remote code execution flaw within the Users module of vTiger CRM versions 4.2 and earlier. This vulnerability stems from improper input validation and sanitization mechanisms that fail to properly filter user-supplied data before processing. The flaw specifically manifests when the templatename parameter is passed to the eval function, creating a dangerous condition where attacker-controlled input can be executed as PHP code on the target server. This type of vulnerability falls under the category of code injection attacks and directly violates security principles of input validation and secure coding practices.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through the manipulation of the templatename parameter within the Users module functionality. When an attacker submits malicious input through this parameter, the application processes the data without adequate sanitization before passing it to the eval function. The eval function in PHP executes code dynamically, making it a dangerous construct when fed with untrusted input. This vulnerability is classified as CWE-94, which specifically addresses "Improper Control of Generation of Code ('Code Injection')" and aligns with the ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for "Command and Scripting Interpreter: PHP." The flaw essentially allows an attacker to execute arbitrary PHP commands, potentially gaining complete control over the web server hosting the vulnerable application.
The operational impact of CVE-2005-3823 is severe and far-reaching for organizations using affected vTiger CRM versions. Remote attackers can leverage this vulnerability to execute arbitrary code on the target system, potentially leading to full system compromise, data exfiltration, and persistence mechanisms. The vulnerability enables attackers to perform actions such as creating new user accounts, accessing sensitive customer data, modifying database content, and establishing backdoors. From an ATT&CK perspective, this vulnerability maps to multiple techniques including T1083 (File and Directory Discovery), T1046 (Network Service Scanning), and T1078 (Valid Accounts), as attackers can use the executed code to explore the system and maintain access. The vulnerability also represents a significant risk to data integrity and confidentiality, particularly in customer relationship management systems that handle sensitive business and personal information.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2005-3823 should focus on immediate remediation through the application of vendor patches and updates. Organizations must upgrade to vTiger CRM versions that have addressed this vulnerability, as the original affected versions are no longer supported. Additionally, implementing proper input validation and sanitization measures is crucial, including the complete removal or replacement of the eval function with safer alternatives. Network-level protections such as web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems can provide additional layers of defense. Security hardening practices should include disabling unnecessary PHP functions, implementing proper access controls, and conducting regular security assessments. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of following secure coding practices and adhering to security standards such as those outlined in the OWASP Top Ten and NIST cybersecurity frameworks to prevent similar issues in future software development cycles.