CVE-2005-1554 in Web Forum
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in view_user.php in WowBB 1.6, 1.61, and 1.62 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the sort_by parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/06/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2005-1554 represents a critical SQL injection flaw within the WowBB forum software version 1.6, 1.61, and 1.62. This vulnerability specifically affects the view_user.php script which processes user-related data display functionality. The flaw manifests through improper input validation of the sort_by parameter, which is utilized to determine the sorting order of user listings within the forum interface. This parameter is directly incorporated into SQL query construction without adequate sanitization or parameterization, creating an exploitable condition that allows malicious actors to inject arbitrary SQL commands into the database layer.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability falls under CWE-89, which categorizes it as a SQL injection weakness. Attackers can manipulate the sort_by parameter to append malicious SQL syntax to legitimate database queries, potentially gaining unauthorized access to sensitive user data, modifying database contents, or even executing administrative commands on the underlying database system. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it enables remote code execution without requiring authentication, making it accessible to any internet-connected attacker who can submit requests to the affected forum software.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability exposes organizations running affected WowBB versions to significant security risks including data breaches, user account compromise, and potential system takeover. The attack surface extends beyond simple data theft to include complete database manipulation capabilities, allowing adversaries to escalate privileges and establish persistent access. The vulnerability's remote exploitability means that attackers can leverage this flaw from anywhere on the internet without requiring physical access to the system or knowledge of internal network structures.
The mitigation strategies for this vulnerability include immediate patching of the WowBB software to versions that properly sanitize input parameters and implement proper parameterized queries. System administrators should also implement input validation mechanisms that reject malformed parameters and employ web application firewalls to detect and block suspicious SQL injection patterns. Additionally, database access should be restricted to minimum necessary privileges for the application, and all user inputs should be properly escaped or parameterized before being incorporated into database queries. Organizations should also consider implementing database activity monitoring to detect anomalous SQL query patterns that may indicate exploitation attempts. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under T1190 - Proxy Process, as attackers may use the compromised system to establish further access points, and T1071.004 - Application Layer Protocol: DNS, when leveraging the compromised system for data exfiltration through DNS tunneling techniques.