CVE-2009-4543 in Facil Helpdesk
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in index.php in Cromosoft Technologies Facil Helpdesk 2.3 Lite allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the lng parameter. NOTE: this can also be leveraged to include and execute arbitrary local files via .. (dot dot) sequences.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/08/2024
The vulnerability described in CVE-2009-4543 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw within the Facil Helpdesk 2.3 Lite software developed by Cromosoft Technologies. This vulnerability exists in the index.php file and specifically targets the lng parameter which processes user-supplied input without adequate validation or sanitization. The flaw allows remote attackers to inject malicious URLs that can be executed on the target system, creating a severe security risk that can be exploited from anywhere on the internet. The vulnerability's classification as a remote file inclusion issue places it squarely within the scope of common web application security weaknesses that have historically led to complete system compromise.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper input validation and insecure coding practices that fail to properly sanitize user-provided parameters before using them in file inclusion operations. When the lng parameter is processed, the application directly incorporates the supplied value into file path construction without adequate checks to prevent directory traversal attacks or malicious URL injection. This allows attackers to manipulate the parameter to include not only remote URLs but also local file paths that can be constructed using directory traversal sequences such as .. (dot dot) notation. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it can be exploited to execute arbitrary PHP code on the target system, potentially leading to full system compromise.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends far beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with the capability to gain complete control over the affected system. Remote code execution through file inclusion attacks can enable attackers to install backdoors, steal sensitive data, modify system files, or use the compromised system as a launching point for further attacks against other systems within the network. The vulnerability's ability to include local files via directory traversal sequences adds another dimension of exploitation potential, allowing attackers to access system files that should normally be restricted. This particular flaw aligns with CWE-98, which describes improper file inclusion vulnerabilities where applications include files based on user-controllable input without proper validation, and also maps to ATT&CK technique T1190 for exploitation of remote services through file inclusion attacks.
The security implications of this vulnerability are severe and multifaceted, as it represents a classic example of how insecure parameter handling can lead to complete system compromise. Organizations running this version of Facil Helpdesk are at significant risk of unauthorized access, data breaches, and potential lateral movement within their network infrastructure. The vulnerability's exploitation requires minimal technical skill and can be automated using existing attack frameworks, making it particularly dangerous in environments where security monitoring is insufficient. Given the age of this vulnerability and its classification as a remote file inclusion flaw, it represents one of the more straightforward exploitation paths available to threat actors targeting web applications. The combination of remote code execution capabilities and local file inclusion through directory traversal makes this vulnerability particularly attractive to attackers seeking persistent access to compromised systems. Organizations should immediately implement mitigations including input validation, parameter sanitization, and application updates to prevent exploitation of this vulnerability.