CVE-2004-1654 in phpWebSite
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in the calendar module in phpWebsite 0.9.3-4 and earlier allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via cal_template.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/19/2018
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2004-1654 represents a critical sql injection flaw within the calendar module of phpWebsite versions 0.9.3 through 0.9.3-4. This security weakness stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization mechanisms within the application's calendar functionality, specifically when processing the cal_template parameter. The flaw allows remote attackers to inject malicious sql code directly into the application's database layer through the targeted parameter.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs when the calendar module fails to properly escape or validate user-supplied input before incorporating it into sql queries. When an attacker submits crafted input through the cal_template parameter, the application processes this data without adequate sanitization, enabling the execution of arbitrary sql commands against the underlying database. This type of vulnerability falls under the common weakness enumeration category CWE-89, which specifically addresses sql injection vulnerabilities. The attack vector is particularly dangerous because it allows remote exploitation without requiring authentication or prior access to the system.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft or corruption. An attacker who successfully exploits this flaw can execute commands with the privileges of the database user, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The vulnerability enables unauthorized users to manipulate, delete, or extract sensitive information from the database, including user credentials, personal data, and application configuration details. In a web application context, this represents a severe threat to data integrity and confidentiality, as the attacker can essentially bypass traditional application security controls and directly interact with the database layer.
The exploitation of this vulnerability aligns with tactics described in the attack pattern taxonomy, specifically matching patterns related to remote code execution through input manipulation. Organizations running affected versions of phpWebsite face significant risk of data breaches, system compromise, and potential regulatory violations. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of input validation and parameterized queries in preventing sql injection attacks. Security professionals should immediately implement mitigations including patching to the latest version of phpWebsite, implementing proper input sanitization, and deploying web application firewalls to monitor and block malicious sql injection attempts. Additionally, regular security assessments and code reviews should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other application components and ensure compliance with secure coding practices.