CVE-2003-1340 in PHP-Nuke
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple SQL injection vulnerabilities in Francisco Burzi PHP-Nuke 5.6 and 6.5 allow remote authenticated users to execute arbitrary SQL commands via (1) a uid (user) cookie to modules.php; and allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via an aid (admin) cookie to the Web_Links module in a (2) viewlink, (3) MostPopular, or (4) NewLinksDate action, different vectors than CVE-2003-0279.
If you want to get best quality of vulnerability data, you may have to visit VulDB.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/16/2018
The vulnerability described in CVE-2003-1340 represents a critical SQL injection flaw affecting Francisco Burzi PHP-Nuke versions 5.6 and 6.5, classified under CWE-89 which specifically addresses SQL injection vulnerabilities. This security weakness enables both authenticated users with legitimate accounts and remote attackers to manipulate database queries through carefully crafted input parameters. The vulnerability manifests in multiple attack vectors, making it particularly dangerous as it can be exploited through different pathways within the same application framework.
The technical exploitation occurs through manipulation of cookie values, specifically targeting the uid (user) cookie in modules.php and aid (admin) cookies within the Web_Links module. When these cookies are improperly validated or sanitized, the application directly incorporates their values into SQL query strings without adequate input filtering or parameterization. This allows malicious actors to inject additional SQL commands that execute with the privileges of the affected database user, potentially leading to complete database compromise. The attack vectors include the viewlink, MostPopular, and NewLinksDate actions within the Web_Links module, each representing distinct entry points for SQL injection attacks.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft, as it provides attackers with the capability to execute arbitrary SQL commands on the underlying database system. This can result in unauthorized data access, modification, or deletion, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The vulnerability affects not only the database integrity but also the overall security posture of the PHP-Nuke installation, as successful exploitation can enable attackers to escalate privileges and gain deeper system access. The fact that both authenticated users and remote attackers can exploit this vulnerability increases the attack surface and makes the system more susceptible to various attack scenarios.
Security mitigations for CVE-2003-1340 should focus on implementing proper input validation and parameterized queries throughout the PHP-Nuke application. The recommended approach involves sanitizing all cookie values and user inputs before incorporating them into database queries, utilizing prepared statements or parameterized queries to prevent SQL injection. Additionally, implementing proper access controls and authentication mechanisms can help limit the impact of authenticated user exploitation. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls and regular security assessments to detect and prevent such vulnerabilities. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under T1071.004 for application layer protocols and T1213 for data from information repositories, highlighting the need for comprehensive defensive measures. The vulnerability underscores the importance of secure coding practices and proper input validation, as outlined in OWASP Top Ten security requirements, particularly focusing on preventing injection flaws that remain among the most critical web application security risks.