CVE-2005-1503 in MidiCart PHP Shopping Cart
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple SQL injection vulnerabilities in MidiCart PHP Shopping Cart allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the (1) searchstring parameter to search_list.php, the (2) maingroup or (3) secondgroup parameters to item_list.php, or (4) code_no parameter to item_show.php.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/17/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2005-1503 represents a critical security flaw in the MidiCart PHP Shopping Cart system that exposes multiple pathways for remote attackers to perform SQL injection attacks. This vulnerability falls under the common weakness enumeration CWE-89 which specifically addresses SQL injection vulnerabilities where untrusted data is incorporated into SQL commands without proper sanitization or parameterization. The affected components include three distinct PHP scripts that handle user input for search functionality and product categorization, creating multiple attack vectors that collectively weaken the overall security posture of the shopping cart system.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the improper handling of user-supplied input within SQL query construction processes. When attackers manipulate the searchstring parameter in search_list.php, or exploit the maingroup and secondgroup parameters in item_list.php, or target the code_no parameter in item_show.php, they can inject malicious SQL code that gets executed within the database context. This occurs because the application directly incorporates user input into SQL queries without appropriate input validation, sanitization, or parameterized query usage. The vulnerability essentially allows attackers to bypass authentication mechanisms, extract sensitive data, modify database contents, or even escalate privileges within the database system.
The operational impact of CVE-2005-1503 is severe and multifaceted, potentially enabling complete database compromise and unauthorized access to sensitive customer information. Attackers could exploit these vulnerabilities to access customer databases containing personal information, credit card details, and transaction records, leading to significant data breaches and regulatory compliance violations. The attack surface is expanded due to the multiple entry points, making it easier for threat actors to find a successful exploitation path. This vulnerability directly maps to several ATT&CK techniques including T1190 for exploitation of remote services and T1071.004 for application layer protocol usage, particularly HTTP traffic. The consequences extend beyond immediate data theft to potential system compromise, service disruption, and reputational damage for organizations using the vulnerable shopping cart system.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability must focus on implementing proper input validation and parameterized query construction across all affected PHP scripts. Organizations should immediately implement input sanitization measures that filter or escape special characters commonly used in SQL injection attacks, including single quotes, semicolons, and comment markers. The recommended approach involves migrating from dynamic SQL query construction to parameterized queries or prepared statements, which separates SQL code from user data entirely. Additionally, implementing proper access controls and database permissions can limit the damage from successful exploitation attempts. Regular security audits and code reviews should be conducted to identify similar patterns in other applications, and the affected system should be updated or patched as soon as vendor support becomes available. Network monitoring and intrusion detection systems should be configured to detect anomalous SQL query patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of following secure coding practices and adheres to security standards such as OWASP Top Ten and NIST cybersecurity guidelines for preventing injection flaws in web applications.