CVE-2014-2268 in vTiger
Summary
by MITRE
views/Index.php in the Install module in vTiger 6.0 before Security Patch 2 does not properly restrict access, which allows remote attackers to re-install the application via a request that sets the X-Requested-With HTTP header, as demonstrated by executing arbitrary PHP code via the db_name parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/11/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2014-2268 represents a critical access control flaw within the vTiger 6.0 application's Install module. This weakness stems from inadequate validation of the X-Requested-With HTTP header, which is typically used to identify AJAX requests and prevent cross-site request forgery attacks. The flaw exists specifically in the views/Index.php file of the Install module, where the application fails to properly verify the authenticity of installation requests. Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by crafting malicious requests that manipulate the X-Requested-With header to bypass normal installation restrictions, effectively allowing unauthorized reinstallation of the application.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability leverages the application's trust in the X-Requested-With header to determine whether a request should be processed as part of the installation workflow. When this header is present and matches expected values, the system incorrectly assumes the request originates from a legitimate administrative interface rather than a malicious actor. This misinterpretation enables attackers to bypass authentication checks and proceed with installation procedures that should only be accessible to authorized administrators. The vulnerability becomes particularly dangerous when combined with the db_name parameter, which can be manipulated to execute arbitrary PHP code during the installation process, potentially leading to complete system compromise.
The operational impact of CVE-2014-2268 extends far beyond simple unauthorized access, as it provides attackers with the capability to execute arbitrary code on the target system. This remote code execution vulnerability allows malicious actors to install backdoors, modify existing application files, or even gain full control over the web server hosting the vTiger application. The vulnerability affects organizations using vTiger 6.0 before Security Patch 2, creating a significant risk for businesses that have not applied the necessary security updates. The attack vector requires minimal privileges and can be executed remotely, making it particularly attractive to threat actors seeking to compromise web applications without extensive reconnaissance.
From a cybersecurity perspective, this vulnerability aligns with CWE-285, which addresses improper authorization issues in software systems. The flaw demonstrates poor input validation and inadequate access control mechanisms that are commonly exploited in web application attacks. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under the privilege escalation and code execution techniques, as attackers can leverage the installation module to gain elevated privileges and execute malicious payloads. Organizations should immediately implement the security patch provided by vTiger to address this vulnerability, while also conducting comprehensive security assessments to identify potential exploitation attempts. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of proper access controls and the need for regular security updates in enterprise applications.
The broader implications of this vulnerability extend to the security practices of organizations relying on open-source applications. It highlights the risks associated with delayed patch management and inadequate security monitoring, as the vulnerability remained exploitable for an extended period. Security professionals should implement network-based intrusion detection systems to monitor for suspicious X-Requested-With header patterns and ensure that all web applications undergo regular security assessments. The incident underscores the importance of maintaining current security patches and establishing robust vulnerability management processes that can quickly identify and remediate similar access control flaws in other applications.