CVE-2005-3304 in PHP-Nuke
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple SQL injection vulnerabilities in PHP-Nuke 7.8 allow remote attackers to modify SQL queries and execute arbitrary PHP code via (1) the username parameter in the Your Account page, (2) the url parameter in the Downloads module, and (3) the description parameter in the Web_Links module.
If you want to get the best quality for vulnerability data then you always have to consider VulDB.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/22/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2005-3304 represents a critical security flaw in PHP-Nuke 7.8 that exposes multiple attack vectors through SQL injection techniques. This vulnerability affects web applications built on the PHP-Nuke content management system and demonstrates the dangerous consequences of inadequate input validation in web applications. The flaw allows remote attackers to manipulate database queries through specifically crafted inputs, potentially leading to unauthorized access, data manipulation, and arbitrary code execution within the target system.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from insufficient sanitization of user inputs across three distinct modules within the PHP-Nuke framework. The first attack vector targets the username parameter on the Your Account page, where unsanitized input directly influences SQL query construction. The second vector exploits the url parameter within the Downloads module, while the third vulnerability occurs through the description parameter in the Web_Links module. These attack surfaces demonstrate a systemic weakness in input handling where user-provided data flows directly into database operations without proper validation or escaping mechanisms. This pattern aligns with CWE-89 which specifically addresses SQL injection vulnerabilities, and represents a classic example of how improper input validation can lead to severe security consequences.
The operational impact of CVE-2005-3304 extends far beyond simple data corruption, as it enables attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code on the target server. This capability transforms the vulnerability from a mere data integrity issue into a full system compromise risk. Attackers can leverage these injection points to escalate privileges, access sensitive user data, modify database contents, and potentially establish persistent backdoors within the web application. The remote nature of these attacks means that adversaries do not require physical access to the system, making the vulnerability particularly dangerous for publicly accessible web applications. This vulnerability directly maps to ATT&CK technique T1190 which describes the exploitation of vulnerabilities in web applications to gain unauthorized access.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2005-3304 must address the root cause of insufficient input validation while also implementing defensive measures to prevent exploitation. The primary solution involves implementing proper parameterized queries or prepared statements throughout all database interactions within the PHP-Nuke application. Additionally, comprehensive input sanitization should be implemented to filter or escape special characters that could be used in SQL injection attempts. Security headers and web application firewalls should be deployed to detect and block suspicious input patterns. Regular security audits and code reviews should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other parts of the application. Organizations should also consider implementing database activity monitoring to detect anomalous query patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability highlights the importance of following secure coding practices and adhering to industry standards such as OWASP Top Ten to prevent similar issues in future application development cycles.