CVE-2013-5696 in GLPI
Summary
by MITRE
inc/central.class.php in GLPI before 0.84.2 does not attempt to make install/install.php unavailable after an installation is completed, which allows remote attackers to conduct cross-site request forgery (CSRF) attacks, and (1) perform a SQL injection via an Etape_4 action or (2) execute arbitrary PHP code via an update_1 action.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/24/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2013-5696 affects GLPI versions prior to 0.84.2, specifically within the inc/central.class.php file where the installation process lacks proper security controls to prevent repeated installation attempts. This flaw represents a critical security oversight that enables attackers to exploit the system through multiple attack vectors, including cross-site request forgery and code execution vulnerabilities. The vulnerability stems from insufficient validation mechanisms that fail to properly secure the installation workflow after the initial setup has been completed.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the absence of proper access controls and state management during the installation process. When GLPI completes its installation, the system should invalidate or secure the installation script to prevent unauthorized re-execution. However, the vulnerable version fails to implement this critical security measure, leaving the install.php endpoint accessible and exploitable. This design flaw creates a window of opportunity for attackers to manipulate the installation process through carefully crafted requests.
From a cybersecurity perspective, this vulnerability directly maps to CWE-352 Cross-Site Request Forgery and CWE-94 Improper Control of Generation of Code, as it allows attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code and manipulate the system's installation state. The CSRF component enables attackers to trick authenticated users into performing unintended actions, while the SQL injection capability through the Etape_4 action provides a pathway for database manipulation. The update_1 action specifically enables remote code execution, making this vulnerability particularly dangerous for systems that are not properly patched.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple exploitation to potential system compromise and data breach scenarios. Attackers can leverage the SQL injection to extract sensitive information from the database, modify critical system configurations, or establish persistent access points within the network. The remote code execution capability allows for complete system compromise, potentially enabling attackers to deploy malware, establish backdoors, or use the compromised system as a pivot point for further attacks. This vulnerability affects organizations using GLPI for IT asset management, help desk systems, and network monitoring, making it particularly concerning for enterprise environments.
Security mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate patching of affected GLPI installations to version 0.84.2 or later, where the installation process has been properly secured. Organizations should also implement network segmentation to limit access to installation endpoints and ensure that only authorized personnel can perform system installations. Additionally, monitoring systems should be configured to detect unauthorized access attempts to installation scripts, and regular security audits should verify that installation processes are properly secured. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper state management and access control implementation in web applications, particularly during critical system operations such as installation and configuration processes.