CVE-2005-3259 in versatileBulletinBoard
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple SQL injection vulnerabilities in versatileBulletinBoard (vBB) 1.0.0 RC2 allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands and bypass authentication via the (1) login field, (2) "search this thread" feature, (3) "search for posts" feature, (4) "forgot password" feature, (5) list parameter in userlistpre.php, and the (6) select, (7) categ, and (8) to parameters in index.php.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/27/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2005-3259 represents a critical SQL injection flaw in versatileBulletinBoard version 1.0.0 RC2, a web-based discussion forum software that was widely deployed in 2005. This vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization mechanisms within the application's database interaction layers, allowing malicious actors to inject arbitrary SQL commands through multiple entry points. The flaw operates at the application level where user-supplied data is directly concatenated into SQL queries without proper escaping or parameterization, creating an environment where attackers can manipulate database operations to extract sensitive information, modify data, or execute unauthorized commands. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-89 which specifically addresses SQL injection weaknesses, and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190 for exploitation of remote services through SQL injection attacks.
Multiple attack vectors exist within the vulnerable application, each presenting distinct pathways for exploitation. The login field represents the most critical entry point as it allows attackers to bypass authentication mechanisms entirely, potentially gaining administrative access to the entire forum system. The "search this thread" feature and "search for posts" functionality provide additional attack surfaces where malicious input can be injected into database queries used for content retrieval. The "forgot password" feature presents another avenue where attackers could manipulate the password recovery process, potentially gaining unauthorized access to user accounts. Additionally, the userlistpre.php script's list parameter and index.php's select, categ, and to parameters all offer opportunities for SQL injection exploitation, creating a comprehensive attack surface that spans the application's core functionalities.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends far beyond simple data theft, encompassing complete system compromise and potential data breaches. Successful exploitation allows attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands on the underlying database server, enabling them to extract user credentials, forum configuration data, and potentially sensitive information stored within the database. The authentication bypass capability means that unauthorized users could gain administrative privileges, leading to complete control over the forum's content, user management, and system configuration. This vulnerability also creates opportunities for data manipulation, where attackers could modify forum posts, delete content, or alter user permissions, fundamentally compromising the integrity and availability of the platform.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2005-3259 require immediate implementation of proper input validation and parameterized queries throughout the application codebase. The most effective remediation involves implementing prepared statements or parameterized queries for all database interactions, ensuring that user input is properly escaped and separated from SQL command structure. Input validation should be implemented at multiple layers including client-side and server-side validation, with strict sanitization of all user-supplied data before processing. Organizations should also implement proper access controls and authentication mechanisms, including account lockout policies to prevent brute force attacks. Additionally, regular security audits and code reviews should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other application components. The remediation efforts should align with industry best practices outlined in OWASP Top Ten and NIST cybersecurity guidelines for preventing SQL injection vulnerabilities. System administrators should also monitor database logs for suspicious activity and implement network segmentation to limit potential damage from successful exploitation attempts.