CVE-2005-3326 in MyBB
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in usercp.php in MyBulletinBoard (MyBB) allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the awayday parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/23/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2005-3326 represents a critical SQL injection flaw within the MyBulletinBoard (MyBB) forum software, specifically affecting the usercp.php script. This issue enables remote attackers to manipulate database queries through the awayday parameter, potentially leading to unauthorized access and data compromise. The vulnerability exists due to insufficient input validation and sanitization within the application's user control panel functionality, where user-supplied data is directly incorporated into SQL command construction without proper escaping or parameterization.
This SQL injection vulnerability falls under the Common Weakness Enumeration category CWE-89, which specifically addresses improper neutralization of special elements used in SQL commands. The flaw allows attackers to inject malicious SQL code through the awayday parameter, which is typically used to set user away status in the bulletin board system. When the application processes this parameter without adequate validation, it creates an opportunity for attackers to manipulate the underlying database queries and execute arbitrary commands. The vulnerability demonstrates poor input handling practices and lacks proper database query sanitization mechanisms that would normally prevent such injection attacks.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft, as it provides attackers with the capability to perform various malicious activities including data enumeration, unauthorized data modification, and potentially complete database compromise. Attackers can exploit this vulnerability to extract sensitive user information, modify forum content, escalate privileges, or even gain shell access to the underlying system if proper database security measures are not in place. The remote nature of this attack means that an attacker does not require physical access to the system, making it particularly dangerous for online communities and web applications. This vulnerability directly maps to ATT&CK technique T1071.004 for application layer protocol and T1190 for exploit public-facing application, highlighting its relevance in modern cyber threat landscapes.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2005-3326 should focus on immediate patching of the MyBB software to address the input validation flaw in usercp.php. Organizations should implement proper parameterized queries or prepared statements to prevent SQL injection attacks, ensuring that user input is properly escaped before being incorporated into database operations. Input validation should be strengthened to reject malformed or potentially malicious data, particularly for parameters like awayday that are used in database operations. Network-level defenses including web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems can provide additional protection layers, while regular security audits and code reviews should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other application components. The vulnerability underscores the importance of maintaining up-to-date software versions and implementing robust database security practices as outlined in industry standards such as the OWASP Top Ten and NIST cybersecurity frameworks.