CVE-2005-3369 in Burning Board
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple SQL injection vulnerabilities in the Info-DB module (info_db.php) in Woltlab Burning Board 2.7 and earlier allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands and possibly upload files via the (1) fileid and (2) subkatid parameters.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/06/2021
The vulnerability described in CVE-2005-3369 represents a critical security flaw in the Woltlab Burning Board 2.7 and earlier versions, specifically within the Info-DB module. This issue manifests as multiple SQL injection vulnerabilities that enable remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands against the underlying database system. The vulnerability affects the info_db.php script and is particularly dangerous because it impacts two distinct parameter fields: fileid and subkatid. These parameters are likely used to retrieve and display specific file and category information within the bulletin board system's database interface, making them prime targets for exploitation by malicious actors seeking unauthorized database access.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through improper input validation and sanitization within the Info-DB module. When the application processes the fileid and subkatid parameters without adequate filtering or escaping, attackers can inject malicious SQL code that gets executed within the database context. This type of vulnerability directly maps to CWE-89, which defines SQL injection as the insertion of malicious SQL code into input fields for execution by the database. The flaw allows for arbitrary command execution, which can result in complete database compromise, data exfiltration, and potential system takeover. Attackers may leverage this vulnerability to escalate privileges, extract sensitive user information, modify database contents, or even gain shell access to the underlying server through database backdoors.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft, as it can lead to complete system compromise and unauthorized file upload capabilities. Remote attackers with successful exploitation can manipulate the bulletin board's functionality to upload malicious files, potentially creating persistent backdoors or deploying additional malware within the system. This vulnerability affects organizations using legacy Woltlab Burning Board installations, which were widely deployed in 2005, making it particularly concerning given the long lifespan of such systems. The risk is amplified by the fact that these systems often contain sensitive user data, forum discussions, and potentially confidential business information. The vulnerability's remote exploitability means that attackers do not require physical access or local network presence, making it an attractive target for widespread exploitation. Organizations using affected versions must consider the potential for data breaches, service disruption, and compliance violations that could result from such an attack.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on immediate patching and input validation improvements. The primary solution involves upgrading to Woltlab Burning Board versions that address this specific SQL injection flaw, as the vendor would have implemented proper parameter sanitization and input validation. Organizations should also implement proper database access controls, including restricted database user permissions and prepared statement usage to prevent SQL injection. Network-level protections such as web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems can provide additional layers of defense. Security monitoring should be enhanced to detect unusual database access patterns or suspicious query executions. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of input validation and proper database security practices, aligning with ATT&CK techniques related to SQL injection and privilege escalation. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be conducted to identify similar issues in legacy systems, while application code reviews should emphasize secure coding practices to prevent future occurrences of such flaws.