CVE-2005-1972 in FusionBB
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple SQL injection vulnerabilities in InteractivePHP FusionBB .11 Beta and earlier allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via (1) the username, which is not properly handled by the insertUser function, or (2) the bb_session_id value in a cookie.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/09/2018
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2005-1972 represents a critical SQL injection flaw affecting InteractivePHP FusionBB versions 1.1 Beta and earlier. This vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization within the application's database interaction mechanisms, specifically targeting the insertUser function and cookie handling processes. The flaw allows remote attackers to manipulate database queries through carefully crafted malicious input, potentially leading to unauthorized data access, modification, or deletion. The vulnerability manifests in two primary attack vectors: the first occurs when user-provided username data is directly incorporated into SQL queries without proper escaping or parameterization, while the second exploits the bb_session_id cookie value which is similarly mishandled during database operations.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-89, which specifically addresses SQL injection weaknesses in software applications. The flaw demonstrates poor input validation practices where user-controllable data flows directly into database command execution contexts without appropriate sanitization measures. When an attacker submits a malicious username containing SQL metacharacters or commands, the insertUser function fails to properly escape these inputs, allowing the database engine to interpret the injected commands as legitimate SQL operations. Similarly, the cookie-based attack vector exploits the lack of proper session identifier validation, where the bb_session_id value is directly used in SQL queries without adequate protection against injection attacks.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft, as it provides attackers with potential access to the entire database backend of the affected FusionBB installation. Attackers can leverage these injection points to extract sensitive user information including passwords, personal details, and administrative credentials. The remote execution capability means that attackers do not require physical access to the system or local network presence, making this vulnerability particularly dangerous for publicly accessible web applications. Additionally, the vulnerability could enable attackers to escalate privileges, modify user permissions, or even gain shell access to the underlying server if the database is configured with appropriate privileges.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2005-1972 should focus on immediate input validation and sanitization implementation across all user-facing data entry points. The recommended approach involves implementing proper parameterized queries or prepared statements for all database interactions, ensuring that user inputs are properly escaped or validated before being incorporated into SQL commands. Organizations should also implement proper cookie security measures including secure flag settings and proper session management protocols. The vulnerability highlights the importance of following secure coding practices as outlined in the OWASP Top Ten and NIST Secure Coding Guidelines, particularly focusing on input validation, output encoding, and proper error handling mechanisms. Additionally, regular security audits and penetration testing should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in legacy systems and ensure that all database interactions follow established security protocols to prevent unauthorized access and data compromise.