CVE-2003-0751 in PY-Membres
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in pass_done.php for PY-Membres 4.2 and earlier allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL queries via the email parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/21/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2003-0751 represents a critical SQL injection flaw within the PY-Membres 4.2 content management system, specifically affecting the pass_done.php component. This vulnerability exposes the application to remote code execution attacks through manipulation of the email parameter, creating a significant security risk for systems utilizing this outdated software version. The flaw stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization mechanisms within the password recovery functionality, allowing malicious actors to inject arbitrary SQL commands that bypass normal authentication procedures.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs when the pass_done.php script processes user input from the email parameter without proper sanitization or parameterized query construction. Attackers can exploit this weakness by crafting malicious email addresses containing SQL injection payloads that manipulate the underlying database queries. This type of vulnerability falls under CWE-89 which categorizes SQL injection as a fundamental weakness in software design where untrusted data is directly incorporated into SQL command construction. The vulnerability exists due to the application's failure to implement proper input filtering, which is a core requirement for preventing injection attacks according to industry security standards.
The operational impact of CVE-2003-0751 extends beyond simple data theft, as successful exploitation can lead to complete system compromise through database access and potential privilege escalation. Attackers can execute arbitrary SQL commands that may allow them to extract sensitive user information, modify database records, or even gain shell access to the underlying server. This vulnerability particularly affects web applications that rely on database-driven user authentication systems, making it a prime target for automated exploitation tools. The attack vector is particularly dangerous because it requires minimal user interaction and can be executed remotely, aligning with ATT&CK technique T1190 for exploitation of remote services.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability must address both immediate remediation and long-term security improvements. The most effective immediate solution involves upgrading to PY-Membres version 4.3 or later, which contains patches specifically addressing the SQL injection flaw. Organizations should also implement proper input validation and parameterized queries throughout the application codebase, following secure coding practices that prevent injection attacks. Additionally, network-level protections such as web application firewalls and database access controls should be implemented to reduce the attack surface. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of maintaining up-to-date software versions and implementing defense-in-depth strategies that protect against multiple attack vectors as recommended by NIST cybersecurity frameworks and ISO 27001 standards for information security management.