CVE-2003-0279 in PHP-Nuke
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple SQL injection vulnerabilities in the Web_Links module for PHP-Nuke 5.x through 6.5 allows remote attackers to steal sensitive information via numeric fields, as demonstrated using (1) the viewlink function and cid parameter, or (2) index.php.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/26/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2003-0279 represents a critical SQL injection flaw within the Web_Links module of PHP-Nuke versions 5.x through 6.5. This vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and improper sanitization of user-supplied data within the application's database interaction mechanisms. The flaw specifically affects numeric fields that are processed through the viewlink function and cid parameter, as well as through the index.php script, creating multiple attack vectors for malicious actors seeking to exploit the system. The vulnerability is categorized under CWE-89, which specifically addresses SQL injection weaknesses in software applications, making it a fundamental database security issue that has persisted in web applications for decades.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when remote attackers manipulate numeric input parameters that are directly incorporated into SQL query constructs without proper sanitization or parameterization. When the viewlink function processes the cid parameter or when index.php handles user input, the application fails to validate or escape the numeric values before incorporating them into database queries. This allows attackers to inject malicious SQL code that can manipulate the database query execution flow, potentially enabling unauthorized data retrieval, modification, or deletion. The attack vector specifically targets numeric fields because these are often assumed to be safe inputs, leading to insufficient validation mechanisms being implemented.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it provides attackers with potential access to sensitive database information including user credentials, personal data, and application configuration details. The ability to manipulate numeric parameters through viewlink and index.php functions creates a pathway for attackers to extract confidential information from the database, potentially compromising the entire application infrastructure. The vulnerability affects a wide range of PHP-Nuke installations, making it particularly dangerous as it impacts multiple versions within the 5.x to 6.5 release cycle, indicating a widespread security flaw that could affect numerous web applications. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to T1190 - Exploit Public-Facing Application, where attackers leverage publicly accessible application functions to gain unauthorized access to backend systems.
Security mitigations for CVE-2003-0279 require immediate implementation of proper input validation and parameterized query construction techniques. Organizations should implement strict type checking for numeric parameters, ensuring that all input values are validated against expected numeric formats before database interaction. The recommended approach involves using prepared statements or parameterized queries that separate SQL command structure from data values, preventing injection attacks regardless of input content. Additionally, implementing proper access controls and input sanitization measures within the Web_Links module would significantly reduce the attack surface. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of following secure coding practices, particularly around database interaction and input handling, as outlined in industry standards such as OWASP Top Ten and NIST guidelines for secure software development. Regular security audits and penetration testing should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other application modules, as the flaw represents a common pattern of insecure database interaction that continues to affect web applications. The remediation process should include immediate patching of affected PHP-Nuke versions, implementation of web application firewalls, and comprehensive code review of all database interaction points to prevent similar vulnerabilities from emerging in future development cycles.