CVE-2009-2361 in osTicket
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in include/class.staff.php in osTicket before 1.6 RC5 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the staff username parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/28/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2009-2361 represents a critical sql injection flaw within the osTicket help desk system version 1.6 RC4 and earlier. This vulnerability specifically affects the include/class.staff.php file which handles staff authentication and user management functionality. The flaw occurs when the application fails to properly sanitize user input passed through the staff username parameter, creating an avenue for malicious actors to inject arbitrary sql commands directly into the database layer. This type of vulnerability falls under the common weakness enumeration category CWE-89, which specifically addresses sql injection vulnerabilities that allow attackers to manipulate database queries through untrusted input.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability enables remote attackers to execute unauthorized sql commands against the underlying database without proper authentication. When an attacker submits a malicious username value containing sql injection payloads, the application processes this input directly within sql queries without proper input validation or parameterization. This allows for complete database compromise including but not limited to data extraction, modification, deletion, and potential privilege escalation within the database system. The vulnerability specifically targets the staff authentication mechanism, which could provide attackers with elevated access privileges within the help desk system.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft or modification. Successful exploitation could lead to complete system compromise where attackers gain access to sensitive customer information, staff credentials, support ticket data, and potentially other system resources. The vulnerability affects organizations using osTicket versions prior to 1.6 RC5, making it particularly concerning for businesses that have not updated their systems. This type of attack vector aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190, which covers exploit public-facing applications, and T1071.004, which involves application layer protocol manipulation. Organizations may face regulatory compliance violations, data breaches, and reputational damage if this vulnerability is exploited.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2009-2361 require immediate action including upgrading to osTicket version 1.6 RC5 or later where the vulnerability has been patched. The fix typically involves implementing proper input validation and parameterized queries to prevent sql injection attacks. Organizations should also implement web application firewalls to detect and block sql injection attempts, conduct regular security assessments of their help desk systems, and maintain up-to-date vulnerability management processes. Additionally, implementing principle of least privilege for database connections and regular monitoring of database activities can help detect unauthorized access attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of input validation and proper application security practices in preventing sql injection attacks that can lead to complete system compromise.