CVE-2005-4468 in PHPGedView
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file include vulnerability in help_text_vars.php in PHPGedView 3.3.7 and earlier allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a URL in the PGV_BASE_DIRECTORY parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/01/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2005-4468 represents a critical remote code execution flaw in PHPGedView version 3.3.7 and earlier, specifically within the help_text_vars.php script. This vulnerability stems from improper input validation and sanitization mechanisms that fail to properly restrict user-supplied data. The flaw occurs when the application accepts a PGV_BASE_DIRECTORY parameter that is directly incorporated into file inclusion operations without adequate sanitization. Attackers can exploit this weakness by crafting malicious URLs and injecting them into the parameter, enabling arbitrary code execution on the affected system. The vulnerability directly maps to CWE-94, which describes the improper control of generation of code, and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190 for exploitation of remote services.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the application's failure to validate or sanitize the PGV_BASE_DIRECTORY parameter before using it in a file inclusion context. When PHPGedView processes this parameter, it does not adequately verify the input source or restrict the allowable characters and protocols that can be used within the URL. This creates an opportunity for attackers to inject malicious URLs that point to remote servers hosting malicious code. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the web server process, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The flaw demonstrates poor secure coding practices and inadequate input validation that violates fundamental security principles.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with extensive control over the affected system. Successful exploitation can result in data theft, system compromise, and potential lateral movement within network environments. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to establish persistent backdoors, exfiltrate sensitive genealogical data, or use the compromised system as a launching point for further attacks. The vulnerability affects organizations using PHPGedView installations that have not been updated to versions containing the necessary security patches. This creates a significant risk for genealogy websites and family history projects that may contain sensitive personal information, as the compromise could expose extensive private data repositories.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2005-4468 should prioritize immediate patching of affected PHPGedView installations to version 3.3.8 or later, which contains the necessary security fixes. Organizations should also implement network segmentation and access controls to limit exposure of vulnerable systems. Input validation should be strengthened at all entry points to prevent malicious data from reaching file inclusion functions. Security monitoring should be enhanced to detect suspicious file inclusion patterns and anomalous network traffic. The vulnerability highlights the importance of following secure coding practices including parameter validation, input sanitization, and the principle of least privilege. Additionally, organizations should conduct regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning to identify similar weaknesses in other applications and systems. System hardening measures such as disabling unnecessary file inclusion features and implementing web application firewalls can provide additional layers of protection against exploitation attempts.