CVE-2006-5428 in Helpdesk
Summary
by MITRE
rpc.php in Cerberus Helpdesk 3.2.1 does not verify a client's privileges for a display_get_requesters operation, which allows remote attackers to bypass the GUI login and obtain sensitive information (ticket data) via a direct request.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/25/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2006-5428 affects Cerberus Helpdesk version 3.2.1 and represents a critical authorization flaw in the rpc.php component. This issue stems from insufficient privilege verification within the display_get_requesters operation, creating a pathway for unauthenticated attackers to bypass the graphical user interface login mechanism entirely. The flaw enables remote adversaries to directly access ticket data and other sensitive information by crafting specific API requests without proper authentication credentials.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability resides in the rpc.php file where the application fails to validate user permissions before executing the display_get_requesters function. This operation should typically require valid authentication and appropriate access rights to view ticket requester information, yet the system accepts requests regardless of user authentication status. The absence of proper access control checks creates a direct information disclosure vulnerability that operates at the application layer, allowing attackers to retrieve sensitive data through well-crafted HTTP requests.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability poses significant security risks to organizations using Cerberus Helpdesk 3.2.1. Attackers can exploit this flaw to obtain confidential ticket information, requester details, and potentially other sensitive data stored within the helpdesk system. The vulnerability essentially provides a backdoor method for unauthorized information access, undermining the confidentiality and integrity of the helpdesk system's data. This type of vulnerability can lead to data breaches, privacy violations, and potential escalation to more severe attacks if additional system weaknesses exist.
The vulnerability aligns with CWE-285, which addresses insufficient authorization in software systems, and demonstrates characteristics consistent with ATT&CK technique T1078 for valid accounts and T1566 for credential harvesting. Organizations should immediately implement mitigations including applying the vendor-provided security patch, implementing network segmentation to restrict access to the helpdesk application, and adding proper authentication monitoring. Additionally, organizations should review their access control policies and ensure that all API endpoints properly validate user privileges before executing sensitive operations. The recommended approach includes implementing robust input validation, enforcing mandatory access controls, and conducting regular security assessments to identify similar authorization flaws in other system components.