CVE-2005-0414 in MercuryBoard
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in post.php for MercuryBoard 1.1.1 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via a reply post action for index.php with (1) the t parameter or (2) the qu parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/17/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2005-0414 represents a critical SQL injection flaw within the MercuryBoard 1.1.1 web application, specifically affecting the post.php script. This weakness enables remote attackers to manipulate database queries through crafted input parameters, potentially leading to unauthorized data access, modification, or complete database compromise. The vulnerability manifests when users submit replies through the index.php interface, making it particularly dangerous as it targets core forum functionality that handles user-generated content and interactions.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and sanitization within the MercuryBoard application's processing logic. Attackers can exploit this flaw by manipulating either the t parameter or the qu parameter in the URL structure, which are processed directly within the SQL query construction without proper escaping or parameterization. This allows malicious actors to inject arbitrary SQL commands that execute within the database context, bypassing normal authentication and authorization mechanisms. The vulnerability directly maps to CWE-89, which categorizes SQL injection as a weakness where untrusted data is incorporated into SQL queries without proper sanitization, creating a path for attackers to manipulate database operations.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft, as it provides attackers with potential access to sensitive user information including usernames, passwords, and personal data stored within the forum's database. Remote code execution capabilities may be achievable depending on the database system in use, allowing attackers to escalate privileges and potentially compromise the entire hosting environment. The attack vector is particularly concerning as it requires no authentication and can be executed through standard web browser interactions, making it highly exploitable in automated attack scenarios. This vulnerability represents a classic example of how insufficient input validation in web applications can create persistent security risks that affect user privacy and system integrity.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should prioritize immediate patching of the MercuryBoard application to the latest available version that addresses this specific SQL injection flaw. Organizations should implement proper input validation and parameterized queries throughout their web applications to prevent similar vulnerabilities from occurring in the future. Database access controls should be reviewed and restricted to minimize the potential impact of successful attacks, while application firewalls and intrusion detection systems can help identify and block exploitation attempts. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of adhering to security best practices such as those outlined in the OWASP Top Ten, specifically addressing the prevention of injection flaws through proper input sanitization and the implementation of secure coding practices that align with NIST cybersecurity frameworks. Security teams should conduct regular vulnerability assessments and penetration testing to identify and remediate similar weaknesses in their web applications, as this particular vulnerability demonstrates how seemingly minor input handling issues can create significant security risks in forum and content management systems.