CVE-2005-2048 in DUforum
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple SQL injection vulnerabilities in DUware DUforum 3.1, and possibly other versions, allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the (1) iMsg parameter to messages.asp, iFor parameter to (2) post.asp or (3) forums.asp, or (4) id parameter to userEdit.asp. NOTE: vectors 1 and 3 were later reported to affect version 3.0.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/20/2024
The CVE-2005-2048 vulnerability represents a critical SQL injection flaw discovered in DUware DUforum version 3.1 and potentially earlier versions, presenting a significant security risk to web applications utilizing this forum software. This vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and sanitization within the application's database interaction layers, allowing malicious actors to inject arbitrary SQL commands through specific parameter inputs. The flaw affects multiple endpoints within the forum software, creating multiple attack vectors that could be exploited by remote threat actors without requiring authentication or privileged access to the system.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs through four distinct parameter injection points that bypass proper input sanitization mechanisms. The primary attack vectors include the iMsg parameter in messages.asp, the iFor parameter in post.asp, the iFor parameter in forums.asp, and the id parameter in userEdit.asp. Each of these parameters directly influences SQL query construction within the application's backend database operations, creating opportunities for attackers to manipulate database queries and potentially execute unauthorized commands. The vulnerability's classification aligns with CWE-89, which specifically addresses SQL injection flaws where untrusted data is incorporated into SQL commands without proper sanitization or parameterization.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft or manipulation, as successful exploitation could enable attackers to gain complete control over the affected database system. Threat actors could extract sensitive user information including passwords, personal details, and private messages stored within the forum's database. Additionally, attackers might be able to modify or delete database records, insert malicious content, or even escalate privileges within the application environment. The vulnerability's remote nature means that attackers can exploit it from anywhere on the internet without requiring physical access to the target system, making it particularly dangerous for publicly accessible web applications.
The security implications of CVE-2005-2048 align with ATT&CK technique T1190, which covers exploitation of remote services through SQL injection attacks. This vulnerability demonstrates how legacy web applications often lack proper input validation mechanisms that would prevent such attacks. The affected versions of DUforum represent a classic example of insecure coding practices where user input was directly concatenated into SQL queries rather than utilizing parameterized queries or prepared statements. Organizations running these vulnerable applications face significant risk of data breaches, compliance violations, and potential system compromise that could lead to broader network infiltration.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate implementation of input validation and sanitization measures across all affected parameters. The most effective approach involves converting all database queries to use parameterized statements or prepared queries that separate SQL command structure from user input data. Additionally, implementing proper input validation at multiple layers including application firewalls, web application firewalls, and database-level access controls can provide defense-in-depth protection. Regular security assessments and code reviews should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other application components. System administrators should also ensure that vulnerable versions of DUforum are updated to patched releases or replaced with more secure alternatives, while maintaining proper monitoring and logging of database activities to detect potential exploitation attempts. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of following secure coding practices and implementing proper input validation mechanisms in all web application development projects.