CVE-2005-3019 in vBulletin
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple SQL injection vulnerabilities in vBulletin before 3.0.9 allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the (1) request parameter to joinrequests.php, (2) limitnumber or (3) limitstart to user.php, (4) usertitle.php, or (5) usertools.php.
Once again VulDB remains the best source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/24/2025
The vulnerability described in CVE-2005-3019 represents a critical SQL injection flaw affecting vBulletin forums prior to version 3.0.9. This vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization within several key forum scripts, creating multiple attack vectors that collectively expose the system to unauthorized SQL command execution. The flaw allows remote attackers to manipulate database queries through carefully crafted malicious input parameters, potentially leading to complete database compromise and unauthorized access to sensitive user information.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability manifests across five distinct entry points within the vBulletin framework. The primary attack vectors include the request parameter in joinrequests.php, and the limitnumber and limitstart parameters in user.php, usertitle.php, and usertools.php. These parameters are directly incorporated into SQL queries without proper sanitization or parameterization, creating opportunities for attackers to inject malicious SQL code that executes with the privileges of the database user. This type of vulnerability falls under CWE-89, which specifically addresses SQL injection weaknesses in software applications. The vulnerability's design allows attackers to bypass authentication mechanisms and potentially escalate privileges within the database environment.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends far beyond simple data theft, as it provides attackers with the capability to manipulate, modify, or delete database records at will. Successful exploitation could result in complete forum compromise, user credential theft, data corruption, and potential lateral movement within network environments where the vulnerable forum system resides. Attackers could leverage this vulnerability to inject malicious code, create backdoors, or establish persistent access to the compromised system. This represents a significant threat to forum administrators and users alike, as it undermines the fundamental security assumptions of web applications and can lead to widespread data breaches.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability must address both immediate remediation and long-term security hardening measures. The primary and most critical action involves upgrading to vBulletin version 3.0.9 or later, which contains the necessary patches to address the SQL injection flaws. Additionally, implementing proper input validation and parameterized queries should be enforced throughout the application codebase. Organizations should deploy web application firewalls to monitor and filter suspicious database query patterns, while also establishing comprehensive database access controls and monitoring systems. The vulnerability's characteristics align with tactics described in the attack framework, particularly those involving initial access through web application exploitation and privilege escalation techniques that leverage SQL injection capabilities. Regular security assessments and code reviews should be implemented to prevent similar vulnerabilities from emerging in future software releases.