CVE-2005-3936 in SocketKB
Summary
by MITRE
PHP file include vulnerability in SocketKB 1.1.0 and earlier allows remote attackers to include arbitrary local files via the __f parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/14/2018
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2005-3936 represents a critical file inclusion flaw within SocketKB version 1.1.0 and earlier systems, classified under CWE-98 as "Improper Neutralization of Special Elements used in an OS Command." This weakness enables remote attackers to manipulate the application's file inclusion mechanism through the __f parameter, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution or unauthorized data access. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and sanitization within the application's parameter handling logic, specifically when processing the __f parameter that controls file inclusion operations.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker submits a malicious value through the __f parameter that bypasses normal input validation checks. This allows the application to include and execute arbitrary local files on the server, effectively granting the attacker elevated privileges and complete control over the affected system. The flaw exists because the application directly incorporates user-supplied input into file inclusion operations without proper sanitization or validation, creating a path for malicious file access through the web application interface. This type of vulnerability falls under the ATT&CK technique T1505.003 for "Server Software Component" and represents a classic example of a local file inclusion attack vector.
The operational impact of CVE-2005-3936 extends beyond simple data theft, as successful exploitation can result in complete system compromise and persistent backdoor access. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to upload malicious files, establish reverse shells, or escalate privileges to gain administrative access to the underlying server infrastructure. The vulnerability affects not only the immediate application but also potentially compromises the entire hosting environment, as local file inclusion attacks can be used to access system configuration files, database credentials, or other sensitive information stored on the server. Organizations running affected versions of SocketKB face significant risk of data breaches, service disruption, and potential regulatory compliance violations due to the severity of this flaw.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2005-3936 should prioritize immediate remediation through official vendor patches or updates, as the vulnerability has been widely documented and exploited in the wild since its disclosure. Organizations should implement input validation controls that sanitize all user-supplied parameters, particularly those used in file inclusion operations, to prevent malicious input from being processed. Additionally, the principle of least privilege should be enforced by restricting file inclusion capabilities to only necessary components and implementing proper access controls to prevent unauthorized file access. Network segmentation and web application firewalls can provide additional layers of defense, while regular security audits and penetration testing should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other applications. The ATT&CK framework recommends implementing strict input validation controls and monitoring for suspicious file access patterns as primary defensive measures against this class of vulnerability.