CVE-2005-1026 in DLMan Pro
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple SQL injection vulnerabilities in SnailSource phpBB 2.0.x mods allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the (1) file_id parameter to dlman.php in DLMan Pro or (2) id parameter to links.php in Linkz Pro (aka LinksLinks Pro).
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/25/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2005-1026 represents a critical security flaw in the SnailSource phpBB 2.0.x modification ecosystem, specifically affecting two popular phpBB extensions known as DLMan Pro and Linkz Pro. This vulnerability manifests as multiple SQL injection flaws that enable remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands against the underlying database system. The affected applications process user input through specific parameter names without proper sanitization or validation, creating pathways for malicious SQL code execution. The vulnerability affects versions of phpBB 2.0.x that incorporate these particular modifications, making it a targeted issue within the phpBB community's plugin ecosystem.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs through the improper handling of user-supplied input in two distinct parameters. The first vulnerability exists in the dlman.php file where the file_id parameter is directly incorporated into SQL queries without adequate input filtering or parameterization. Similarly, the second vulnerability appears in links.php where the id parameter suffers from the same insecure database query construction. Both scenarios follow the classic SQL injection pattern where attacker-controlled input is concatenated directly into SQL command strings, bypassing normal input validation mechanisms. This flaw aligns with CWE-89 which defines SQL injection as the insertion of malicious SQL code into input fields for execution by the database.
The operational impact of CVE-2005-1026 extends far beyond simple data corruption or unauthorized access. Remote attackers can leverage these vulnerabilities to execute arbitrary database commands, potentially gaining complete control over the database contents, including user credentials, forum data, and other sensitive information. The attack surface is particularly concerning because it affects web-based forum systems where phpBB modifications are commonly deployed, often in environments with limited security monitoring. Successful exploitation could lead to data breaches, account takeovers, and potential system compromise. The vulnerability is classified as a remote code execution threat under the ATT&CK framework's T1071.004 technique for application layer protocol manipulation, where attackers exploit web application flaws to gain unauthorized access.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability must address both immediate remediation and long-term security hardening measures. The primary solution involves applying the official patches provided by SnailSource or upgrading to newer versions of the affected phpBB modifications that properly sanitize all user input. Implementing parameterized queries or prepared statements in the affected code sections would prevent the injection of malicious SQL commands. Additionally, input validation should be enforced at multiple levels including application layer filtering and database-level access controls. Organizations should consider implementing web application firewalls to detect and block suspicious SQL injection attempts. The vulnerability also underscores the importance of proper security testing in plugin development environments and adherence to secure coding practices as recommended by OWASP Top Ten and NIST cybersecurity guidelines. Regular security audits of third-party extensions and maintaining updated security monitoring systems would help prevent exploitation of similar vulnerabilities in other components of the phpBB ecosystem.