CVE-2005-1429 in WWWguestbook
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in login.asp in WWWguestbook 1.1 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the password parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/08/2018
The vulnerability described in CVE-2005-1429 represents a critical SQL injection flaw within the WWWguestbook 1.1 web application's login.asp component. This security weakness specifically targets the password parameter handling mechanism, creating an avenue for malicious actors to manipulate the underlying database queries through crafted input. The vulnerability exists in the authentication process where user credentials are processed, making it particularly dangerous as it directly impacts the system's ability to verify user identities and maintain access controls. The flaw allows attackers to bypass normal authentication procedures by injecting malicious SQL code that gets executed within the database context, potentially leading to unauthorized access to the guestbook system and its associated data.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization within the login.asp script. When users submit their credentials through the login form, the application fails to properly escape or filter special characters in the password parameter before incorporating them into SQL queries. This primitive approach to database interaction creates an environment where attacker-controlled input can alter the intended query structure, enabling the execution of arbitrary SQL commands. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-89 as a SQL injection weakness, specifically manifesting as an unescaped input vulnerability that allows command injection at the database layer. According to ATT&CK framework, this maps to T1190 - Exploit Public-Facing Application, where adversaries leverage vulnerabilities in publicly accessible web applications to gain unauthorized access.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple authentication bypass, as successful exploitation can lead to complete database compromise and unauthorized data manipulation. Attackers can potentially extract sensitive information from the database, modify existing records, create new user accounts, or even delete critical data. The vulnerability affects the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the web application's data, making it a serious concern for any organization relying on the WWWguestbook system for guest management or feedback collection. The remote nature of the attack means that exploitation can occur from any location without requiring physical access to the system, making it particularly attractive to malicious actors. Organizations using this vulnerable software face significant risk of data breaches, unauthorized access to guestbook entries, and potential lateral movement within their network infrastructure through compromised authentication mechanisms.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2005-1429 should focus on immediate remediation through proper input validation and parameterized queries implementation. The most effective approach involves updating the login.asp script to utilize prepared statements or parameterized queries that separate SQL command structure from user input data. Organizations should also implement proper input sanitization measures, including character escaping and validation against expected input patterns. Additionally, network-level protections such as web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems can provide additional layers of defense against exploitation attempts. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be conducted to identify similar weaknesses in other application components. The remediation process should also include updating to the latest version of WWWguestbook or migrating to more secure alternatives, as the vulnerability represents an outdated security model that lacks modern protection mechanisms. Security awareness training for developers regarding secure coding practices and proper database interaction methods should be implemented to prevent similar vulnerabilities in future development cycles.