CVE-2004-1864 in XMB
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in Extreme Messageboard (XMB) 1.9 beta allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the restrict parameter to (1) member.php, (2) misc.php, or (3) today.php.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/18/2018
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2004-1864 represents a critical sql injection flaw within Extreme Messageboard version 19 beta, a web-based discussion platform that was widely used for online community forums. This vulnerability specifically affects the handling of user input parameters, creating a pathway for remote attackers to manipulate the underlying database operations through maliciously crafted sql commands. The flaw manifests in three distinct entry points within the application's codebase, namely member php, misc php, and today php scripts, all of which process the restrict parameter without adequate input validation or sanitization measures.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker submits specially crafted input through the restrict parameter to any of the three affected php scripts. The application fails to properly escape or validate the user-supplied data before incorporating it into sql query strings, allowing attackers to inject malicious sql code that executes with the privileges of the web application's database user. This fundamental failure in input handling creates a direct pathway for attackers to bypass authentication mechanisms, extract sensitive data, modify database records, or even execute system commands depending on the database backend and privilege levels. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-89 which specifically addresses improper neutralization of special elements used in sql commands, and represents a classic example of how insufficient input validation can lead to complete database compromise.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft, as it provides attackers with the capability to gain persistent access to the message board's database infrastructure. Remote attackers can leverage this flaw to manipulate forum content, delete user accounts, create administrator accounts, or extract confidential information such as user credentials, private messages, and other sensitive data stored within the database. The vulnerability's remote exploitability means that attackers do not require physical access to the server or local network connectivity, making it particularly dangerous for publicly accessible web applications. This type of vulnerability falls under the ATT&CK technique T1071.004 for application layer protocol and T1190 for exploitation of remote services, demonstrating how legacy web applications often contain unpatched vulnerabilities that can be exploited for broader network compromise.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2004-1864 should focus on immediate patching of the affected Extreme Messageboard version, as this represents a critical security flaw that has been documented for over two decades. Organizations should implement proper input validation and parameterized queries to prevent sql injection attacks, ensuring that all user-supplied data is properly escaped or sanitized before database processing. Additionally, network segmentation and firewall rules should be implemented to limit access to the affected scripts, while regular security audits and penetration testing should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other applications. The remediation process should also include implementing web application firewalls and database activity monitoring to detect and prevent exploitation attempts. Given the age of this vulnerability and the widespread nature of the affected software, administrators should consider migrating to modern forum platforms that have robust security measures and regular security updates to prevent similar issues from occurring in contemporary web applications.