CVE-2005-2985 in aeDating
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in search_result.php in AEwebworks aeDating Script 4.0 and earlier allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL statements via the Country parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/10/2025
The CVE-2005-2985 vulnerability represents a critical sql injection flaw in the aeDating Script 4.0 and earlier versions developed by AEwebworks. This vulnerability specifically affects the search_result.php script where user input is improperly handled, creating an exploitable condition that allows remote attackers to manipulate database queries through the Country parameter. The flaw stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization mechanisms that fail to properly escape or filter user-supplied data before incorporating it into sql commands. This vulnerability falls under the common weakness enumeration CWE-89 which categorizes sql injection as a persistent security issue where untrusted data is directly embedded into sql queries without proper sanitization. The attack vector enables malicious actors to execute arbitrary sql statements on the underlying database system, potentially leading to unauthorized data access, modification, or deletion. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it operates remotely without requiring authentication, making it accessible to any attacker who can reach the affected web application.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker submits malicious input through the Country parameter in the search_result.php script. The script fails to validate or sanitize this input before using it in sql queries, allowing attackers to inject sql payload that can manipulate the database operations. This type of injection can be leveraged to extract sensitive information from database tables, modify existing records, or even gain administrative access to the database system. The vulnerability's impact extends beyond simple data theft as it can enable attackers to escalate privileges and potentially compromise the entire database infrastructure. The flaw demonstrates poor secure coding practices where dynamic sql queries are constructed using user-controllable input without proper parameterization or input filtering mechanisms. According to the attack technique framework, this vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1071.004 which covers application layer protocol manipulation and T1566 which covers credential access through exploitation of vulnerabilities in web applications.
The operational impact of CVE-2005-2985 is severe for any organization utilizing the affected aeDating Script version. Database compromise can result in exposure of user personal information, including names, email addresses, and potentially sensitive profile data that users have provided in the dating platform. The vulnerability also poses risks to business continuity as unauthorized modifications to database records can disrupt platform functionality and potentially lead to service degradation. Organizations may face regulatory compliance violations if user data is compromised, particularly in jurisdictions requiring data protection measures such as the general data protection regulation. The vulnerability can also serve as a foothold for further attacks within the network infrastructure, as database access often provides attackers with additional attack surfaces and potential lateral movement opportunities. Recovery from such an exploitation typically requires comprehensive system assessment, database restoration from backups, and implementation of proper security controls to prevent future incidents. Remediation efforts must include immediate patching of the affected software, implementation of proper input validation mechanisms, and adoption of parameterized queries to prevent similar sql injection vulnerabilities from occurring in the future.