CVE-2005-3824 in vTiger
Summary
by MITRE
The uploads module in vTiger CRM 4.2 and earlier allows remote attackers to upload arbitrary files, such as PHP files, via the add2db action.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/12/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2005-3824 resides within the uploads module of vTiger CRM version 4.2 and earlier, presenting a critical security flaw that enables remote attackers to execute arbitrary file uploads. This vulnerability specifically targets the add2db action within the module, which lacks proper input validation and file type restrictions. The flaw allows malicious actors to bypass security controls and upload potentially harmful files directly to the web server hosting the vTiger CRM application, creating a significant vector for remote code execution and system compromise.
This vulnerability represents a classic example of insecure file upload functionality that directly maps to CWE-434, which describes the weakness of allowing files to be uploaded to a web server without proper validation. The technical implementation flaw stems from insufficient sanitization of file names and content types, combined with inadequate access controls during the upload process. Attackers can exploit this by crafting malicious files with extensions that appear legitimate but contain executable code, particularly targeting php files that can be executed on the web server. The vulnerability essentially eliminates the distinction between trusted and untrusted file uploads, allowing attackers to introduce malicious payloads that can be executed in the context of the web server.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends far beyond simple unauthorized file placement, as it provides attackers with a persistent foothold for further exploitation. Once a malicious file is successfully uploaded, it can be executed to establish reverse shells, download additional malware, or manipulate database contents. This vulnerability enables attackers to perform privilege escalation, data exfiltration, and system reconnaissance without requiring authentication or direct access to the system. The implications are particularly severe for customer relationship management systems like vTiger CRM, which often contain sensitive business data, personal information, and proprietary corporate details that can be accessed through successful exploitation.
Organizations utilizing affected versions of vTiger CRM should immediately implement mitigations including the removal or disabling of the vulnerable uploads module, implementation of strict file type validation with whitelisting approaches, and enforcement of proper access controls. The recommended security measures align with ATT&CK technique T1190, which focuses on exploiting vulnerabilities in web applications to establish persistence. Network segmentation and monitoring of upload activities should be implemented to detect unauthorized file uploads. Additionally, the system should enforce file content verification through multiple validation layers including MIME type checking, file header validation, and virus scanning of uploaded files. Regular security audits and vulnerability assessments should be conducted to identify similar weaknesses in other modules and ensure comprehensive protection against similar attack vectors.