CVE-2003-1210 in PHP-Nuke
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple SQL injection vulnerabilities in the Downloads module for PHP-Nuke 5.x through 6.5 allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the (1) lid parameter to the getit function or the (2) min parameter to the search function.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/12/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2003-1210 represents a critical security flaw in PHP-Nuke content management systems version 5.x through 6.5, specifically within the Downloads module. This issue stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization mechanisms that fail to properly filter user-supplied data before incorporating it into database queries. The vulnerability manifests through two distinct attack vectors that exploit the same underlying architectural weakness, making it particularly dangerous for systems utilizing these older PHP-Nuke versions.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs when the system processes user input through the lid parameter in the getit function and the min parameter in the search function. These parameters are directly concatenated into SQL query strings without proper sanitization or parameterization, creating an environment where malicious actors can inject arbitrary SQL commands. The flaw aligns with CWE-89, which specifically addresses SQL injection vulnerabilities where untrusted data is embedded into SQL queries without proper escaping or parameterization techniques. Attackers can leverage this weakness to manipulate database operations, potentially gaining unauthorized access to sensitive information, modifying database contents, or even executing administrative commands on the underlying database system.
The operational impact of CVE-2003-1210 extends far beyond simple data theft, as it provides attackers with a pathway to achieve complete database compromise. When exploited, this vulnerability can enable attackers to extract confidential information including user credentials, personal data, and system configurations. The attack vectors are particularly concerning because they target core functionality of the CMS - the download module and search capabilities - which are frequently accessed by legitimate users, making the exploitation more likely to go unnoticed. The vulnerability also aligns with ATT&CK technique T1071.004, which describes the use of application layer protocols for command and control, as attackers can leverage the SQL injection to establish persistent access patterns. Furthermore, this vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of input validation practices that are fundamental to secure coding standards and can be addressed through proper implementation of parameterized queries and input sanitization.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2003-1210 require immediate attention through multiple layers of defensive measures. The primary recommendation involves implementing proper input validation and parameterization techniques throughout the application code, ensuring that all user-supplied parameters are properly escaped or parameterized before database interaction. Organizations should also implement web application firewalls that can detect and block suspicious SQL injection patterns targeting these specific parameters. Additionally, the recommended approach includes upgrading to supported versions of PHP-Nuke where these vulnerabilities have been addressed through proper code review and security hardening. System administrators should also conduct comprehensive vulnerability assessments to identify any other potential injection points within the application, as this vulnerability often indicates broader security weaknesses in the codebase. The remediation process should also include implementing proper access controls and database permissions to limit the potential impact of successful exploitation, ensuring that database accounts used by the web application have minimal required privileges.