CVE-2009-4458 in FreePBX
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerabilities in FreePBX 2.5.2 and 2.6.0rc2, and possibly other versions, allow remote attackers to inject arbitrary web script or HTML via the (1) tech parameter to admin/admin/config.php during a trunks display action, the (2) description parameter during an Add Zap Channel action, and (3) unspecified vectors during an Add Recordings action.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/21/2025
The CVE-2009-4458 vulnerability represents a critical cross-site scripting weakness affecting FreePBX versions 2.5.2 and 2.6.0rc2, with potential impact extending to other releases in the product line. This vulnerability exposes the system to remote code execution through malicious script injection, fundamentally compromising the security posture of telecommunications infrastructure managed through the FreePBX interface. The flaw manifests in three distinct attack vectors within the system's administrative functions, creating multiple pathways for threat actors to exploit the underlying software architecture.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization within the FreePBX web interface components. The first vector occurs during trunk display operations when the tech parameter in admin/admin/config.php fails to properly sanitize user-supplied input, allowing attackers to inject malicious JavaScript code that executes in the context of authenticated admin sessions. The second vulnerability appears during Zap Channel addition when the description parameter lacks proper HTML escaping, enabling attackers to embed malicious scripts that persist within the system's configuration data. The third vector, while unspecified in the original report, suggests additional attack surfaces within the recordings management functionality where similar input handling deficiencies exist.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple script injection, as it enables attackers to establish persistent access to the FreePBX administrative interface. Successful exploitation allows threat actors to execute arbitrary commands with administrative privileges, potentially leading to complete system compromise, unauthorized call routing, data exfiltration, and disruption of critical communication services. The vulnerability particularly affects organizations relying on FreePBX for their telephony infrastructure, where unauthorized access could result in significant business disruption and regulatory compliance violations.
Security professionals should implement immediate mitigations including input validation patches, proper HTML escaping mechanisms, and comprehensive parameter sanitization across all web interface components. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-79, Cross-site Scripting, and demonstrates characteristics consistent with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter. Organizations should deploy web application firewalls to filter malicious payloads, implement strict input validation policies, and conduct thorough penetration testing of their telephony management interfaces. Regular security updates and vulnerability assessments remain essential for maintaining protection against similar weaknesses in telecommunications management systems, particularly those handling sensitive operational data and critical infrastructure communications.