CVE-2005-2690 in PostNuke
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in the Downloads module in PostNuke 0.760-RC4b allows PostNuke administrators to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the show parameter to dl-viewdownload.php.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/27/2025
The vulnerability described in CVE-2005-2690 represents a critical SQL injection flaw within the Downloads module of PostNuke version 0.760-RC4b. This security weakness specifically targets the dl-viewdownload.php script which processes user input through the show parameter without adequate sanitization or validation. The vulnerability arises from the application's failure to properly escape or filter user-supplied data before incorporating it into SQL query constructs, creating an exploitable pathway for malicious actors to manipulate database operations.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper input handling within the PostNuke framework's Downloads module. When administrators access the dl-viewdownload.php script with a malicious show parameter value, the application directly incorporates this input into database queries without appropriate sanitization measures. This design flaw allows attackers to inject malicious SQL code that gets executed within the database context, potentially enabling full administrative control over the underlying database system. The vulnerability is classified as a classic SQL injection attack pattern that falls under CWE-89, which specifically addresses improper neutralization of special elements used in SQL commands.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and multifaceted for affected PostNuke installations. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability can execute arbitrary SQL commands with the privileges of the database user associated with the PostNuke application. This typically means that database administrators can potentially gain access to sensitive user data, modify or delete database records, and in some cases, escalate privileges to gain broader system access. The attack vector is particularly dangerous because it targets the administrative functionality of the system, allowing unauthorized users to perform actions that should only be available to legitimate administrators.
Security professionals should note that this vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1071.004, which covers application layer protocol manipulation, and specifically addresses the exploitation of input validation weaknesses in web applications. The attack requires minimal privileges to execute and can be automated through various web-based exploitation tools. Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including input validation, parameterized queries, and proper access controls to prevent unauthorized database access. The vulnerability highlights the importance of proper input sanitization practices and demonstrates how seemingly simple parameter handling can lead to catastrophic security implications. Additionally, this flaw underscores the critical need for regular security updates and the implementation of web application firewalls to protect against similar injection attacks.