CVE-2005-0702 in phpMyFAQ
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in phpMyFAQ 1.4 and 1.5 allows remote attackers to add FAQ records to the database via the username field in forum messages.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/05/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2005-0702 represents a critical sql injection flaw in phpMyFAQ versions 1.4 and 1.5 that fundamentally compromises the integrity and security of the application's database operations. This vulnerability specifically targets the username field within forum messages, creating an attack vector that allows remote adversaries to manipulate the underlying database through crafted input. The flaw stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization mechanisms that fail to properly escape or filter user-supplied data before incorporating it into sql queries. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-89 which categorizes sql injection as a severe weakness in application security where untrusted data is directly embedded into sql command strings without proper sanitization. This particular implementation allows attackers to execute arbitrary sql commands through the forum message submission process, potentially enabling them to insert malicious data, modify existing records, or even extract sensitive information from the database. The impact extends beyond simple data manipulation as it provides a pathway for attackers to escalate privileges and gain deeper access to the system infrastructure.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when a remote attacker submits a specially crafted username field within a forum message that contains malicious sql payload. The phpMyFAQ application processes this input without proper sanitization, allowing the sql injection to occur during the database insertion process for new FAQ records. This flaw demonstrates poor input handling practices and violates fundamental security principles of data validation and sanitization. The attack can be executed entirely through the web interface without requiring any special privileges or direct system access, making it particularly dangerous as it can be exploited by anyone with access to the forum functionality. The vulnerability's persistence in versions 1.4 and 1.5 indicates a systemic weakness in the application's security architecture that was not properly addressed in the development lifecycle, potentially exposing organizations to significant data integrity risks.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends far beyond immediate data corruption as it creates a persistent threat vector that can be exploited repeatedly by attackers. Organizations using vulnerable phpMyFAQ installations face potential exposure of sensitive information stored in the database, including user credentials, forum discussions, and FAQ content that may contain confidential organizational data. The ability to inject malicious data into the FAQ system could be used to spread misinformation, create false content, or establish persistence mechanisms within the application. This vulnerability also provides a potential stepping stone for more sophisticated attacks as attackers may use the sql injection to escalate privileges, access additional system components, or establish backdoors. The long-term implications include potential compliance violations, data breaches, and reputational damage for organizations that fail to address this vulnerability promptly. The attack surface is particularly concerning because forum functionality is often publicly accessible, making it easier for attackers to discover and exploit this vulnerability without significant reconnaissance efforts.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2005-0702 must address both immediate remediation and long-term architectural improvements to prevent similar vulnerabilities. The primary solution involves upgrading to a patched version of phpMyFAQ that properly implements input validation and sanitization for all user-supplied data, particularly in fields that interact with database operations. Organizations should implement proper parameterized queries or prepared statements to prevent sql injection attacks, ensuring that all user input is properly escaped or validated before database insertion. Input validation should be enforced at multiple levels including application logic, database layer, and network boundaries to create defense-in-depth controls. The implementation of web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems can provide additional monitoring and protection against sql injection attempts. Regular security audits and code reviews should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other application components, with particular attention to database interaction patterns and input handling mechanisms. Organizations must also establish proper incident response procedures to detect and respond to potential exploitation attempts, including monitoring for unusual database activities and unauthorized data modifications. The vulnerability serves as a critical reminder of the importance of following secure coding practices and adhering to established security frameworks that address sql injection threats through proper input validation and database access controls.