CVE-2005-2257 in PhpSlash
Summary
by MITRE
The saveProfile function in PhpSlash 0.8.0 allows remote attackers to modify arbitrary profiles and gain privileges by modifying the author_id parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/10/2018
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2005-2257 resides within the PhpSlash content management system version 0.8.0, specifically within the saveProfile function that handles user profile modifications. This flaw represents a critical authorization bypass vulnerability that fundamentally undermines the application's user management and privilege enforcement mechanisms. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and parameter sanitization within the profile saving routine, allowing malicious actors to manipulate the author_id parameter to assume the identity of other users within the system.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through manipulation of the author_id parameter during profile modification requests. When an attacker submits a crafted request to the saveProfile function, they can alter the author_id value to reference another user's profile, effectively gaining unauthorized access to that user's privileges and data. This represents a classic case of insecure direct object reference vulnerability, where the application fails to verify that the requesting user has proper authorization to modify the specified object. The flaw operates at the application logic level rather than at the authentication or authorization layer, making it particularly dangerous as it can bypass traditional security controls.
The operational impact of CVE-2005-2257 extends far beyond simple profile modification, as it enables attackers to escalate their privileges within the PhpSlash system. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability can assume the identity of any user in the system, potentially gaining administrative privileges if they target an administrator account. This privilege escalation capability allows for comprehensive system compromise including data theft, unauthorized content manipulation, and potential lateral movement within the network. The vulnerability affects the integrity and confidentiality of user data, as attackers can modify, delete, or access sensitive information belonging to other users.
Security professionals should note that this vulnerability aligns with CWE-639, which describes "Authorization Bypass Through User-Controlled Key" and maps to ATT&CK technique T1078.004 for Valid Accounts and T1484.001 for Group Policy Modification. The flaw demonstrates poor input validation practices and inadequate access control enforcement that are common in legacy web applications. Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including parameter validation, input sanitization, and proper authorization checks before any potential exploitation occurs. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of proper session management and object reference validation in web applications. Given the age of PhpSlash 0.8.0, this represents a legacy security issue that underscores the critical need for regular application updates and security assessments. The recommended remediation includes patching the application to version 0.8.1 or later, implementing proper authorization controls, and conducting thorough security reviews of all user management functions to prevent similar vulnerabilities from persisting in the codebase.