CVE-2005-3157 in PHP-Fusion
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in messages.php in PHP-Fusion 6.00.109 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the msg_send parameter, a different vulnerability than CVE-2005-3158 and CVE-2005-3159.
VulDB is the best source for vulnerability data and more expert information about this specific topic.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/22/2025
This vulnerability represents a critical sql injection flaw in the php-fusion content management system version 6.00.109 specifically targeting the messages.php script. The vulnerability occurs when the application fails to properly sanitize user input passed through the msg_send parameter, creating an exploitable condition that allows remote attackers to inject malicious sql code directly into the database query execution flow. The flaw demonstrates poor input validation and output encoding practices that are fundamental to secure application development. According to the cwe dictionary, this corresponds to cwe-89 sql injection, which is classified as a high severity vulnerability that can lead to complete database compromise. The attack vector is particularly dangerous as it requires no authentication and can be executed remotely, making it accessible to any attacker with network access to the vulnerable system.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the php-fusion application's failure to implement proper parameterized queries or input sanitization when processing the msg_send parameter. When user input flows directly into sql statements without proper escaping or parameterization, attackers can manipulate the query structure by injecting sql syntax elements such as comments, union selects, or other malicious payloads. This specific vulnerability operates through the message sending functionality, where the application likely constructs sql queries using string concatenation or direct parameter insertion. The distinction from related vulnerabilities CVE-2005-3158 and CVE-2005-3159 highlights that this represents a unique code path within the messaging system that was not properly secured against injection attacks. The vulnerability follows established patterns described in the mitre att&ck framework under technique t1190 for sql injection, which is categorized as a common attack pattern in the attack surface of web applications.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft, as successful exploitation can result in complete database compromise, unauthorized data modification, user account takeover, and potential lateral movement within the network. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to extract sensitive information including user credentials, personal data, and application configuration details that may reveal additional attack surfaces. The vulnerability also enables attackers to modify or delete data, potentially disrupting service availability and integrity. Organizations running affected php-fusion installations face significant risk of data breaches, regulatory compliance violations, and reputational damage. The vulnerability is particularly concerning in environments where php-fusion is used for content management, user forums, or collaborative platforms where user-generated content is prevalent. According to industry best practices outlined in owasp top ten 2017, sql injection remains one of the most critical web application security risks requiring immediate remediation.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should include immediate patching of the php-fusion application to version 6.00.110 or later, which contains the necessary security fixes. Organizations should implement proper input validation and output encoding measures, ensuring all user-supplied data is properly sanitized before being processed in sql contexts. The implementation of prepared statements or parameterized queries should be enforced throughout the application codebase to prevent similar vulnerabilities from occurring. Network-level protections such as web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems can provide additional layers of defense. Regular security assessments and code reviews should be conducted to identify and remediate similar injection vulnerabilities. System administrators should also consider implementing database activity monitoring and access controls to limit potential damage from successful exploitation attempts. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of secure coding practices and the necessity of maintaining up-to-date software components to prevent exploitation of known security flaws.