CVE-2004-0291 in YaBB
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in post.php for YaBB SE 1.5.4 and 1.5.5 allows remote attackers to obtain hashed passwords via the quote parameter.
Be aware that VulDB is the high quality source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/25/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2004-0291 represents a critical SQL injection flaw affecting YaBB SE versions 1.5.4 and 1.5.5. This issue resides within the post.php script and specifically targets the quote parameter handling mechanism. The vulnerability classifies under CWE-89 which denotes SQL injection vulnerabilities where untrusted data is directly incorporated into SQL command strings without proper sanitization or parameterization. The flaw enables remote attackers to manipulate database queries through crafted input, potentially leading to unauthorized data access and information disclosure.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper input validation within the post.php script where the quote parameter is processed without adequate sanitization measures. When users submit posts containing specially crafted quote parameters, the application fails to properly escape or parameterize the input before incorporating it into database queries. This allows attackers to inject malicious SQL code that can manipulate the database structure or extract sensitive information. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it specifically targets password hashes, which are typically stored in hashed formats within database tables. The attack vector is entirely remote, meaning an attacker can exploit this vulnerability without requiring physical access to the system or prior authentication.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft, as it provides attackers with access to user credential information that can be used for further system compromise. Password hashes obtained through this vulnerability can potentially be subjected to offline cracking attacks, especially if weak hashing algorithms are employed. The vulnerability affects the integrity and confidentiality of user data within the YaBB SE forum environment, compromising the security posture of the entire system. This type of attack aligns with ATT&CK technique T1213.002 which involves data from information repositories, specifically targeting database systems to extract sensitive information. The exposure of hashed passwords creates additional risk for users who may have reused credentials across multiple systems, potentially enabling credential stuffing attacks.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2004-0291 should prioritize immediate patching of affected YaBB SE installations to the latest available versions that address this SQL injection vulnerability. Organizations should implement proper input validation and parameterized queries throughout their applications to prevent similar issues from occurring in the future. The implementation of prepared statements and stored procedures can effectively prevent SQL injection attacks by ensuring that user input is properly separated from executable code. Additionally, access controls should be implemented to limit database access permissions and reduce the potential impact of successful attacks. Network segmentation and intrusion detection systems can provide additional layers of defense by monitoring for suspicious database query patterns. Regular security assessments and code reviews should be conducted to identify and remediate similar vulnerabilities in other applications within the organization's infrastructure. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper input sanitization and parameterization in database interactions, reinforcing the need for secure coding practices as outlined in OWASP Top Ten security principles.