CVE-2005-3419 in phpBB
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in usercp_register.php in phpBB 2.0.17 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the signature_bbcode_uid parameter, which is not properly initialized.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/11/2019
The vulnerability described in CVE-2005-3419 represents a critical sql injection flaw within the phpBB forum software version 2.0.17. This vulnerability specifically targets the usercp_register.php script which handles user registration and profile management functions. The issue arises from insufficient input validation and sanitization of the signature_bbcode_uid parameter, creating an exploitable condition that allows malicious actors to inject arbitrary sql commands into the database layer. This particular vulnerability falls under the common weakness enumeration CWE-89 which categorizes sql injection flaws as a serious security concern affecting database integrity and system confidentiality.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker manipulates the signature_bbcode_uid parameter during user registration or profile modification processes. Since this parameter is not properly initialized or sanitized before being incorporated into sql queries, attackers can craft malicious input that alters the intended sql command execution flow. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it operates at the database interaction layer where successful exploitation can lead to complete database compromise including data extraction, modification, or deletion. This type of attack aligns with the attack technique T1071.004 from the ATT&CK framework which covers application layer protocol manipulation.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft to encompass complete system compromise and potential lateral movement within network environments. When an attacker successfully exploits this vulnerability, they can access sensitive user information, modify forum content, escalate privileges, and potentially use the compromised system as a foothold for further attacks. The vulnerability affects the integrity and availability of the phpBB installation, potentially leading to service disruption and data corruption. Organizations running phpBB 2.0.17 systems are particularly at risk since this version predates many security hardening measures that would normally prevent such injection attacks.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate patching of the affected phpBB version to the latest available security releases. System administrators should implement proper input validation and parameter sanitization measures for all user-supplied data, particularly in areas where database interactions occur. The implementation of prepared statements or parameterized queries would prevent the sql injection from occurring in the first place, as recommended by the OWASP secure coding practices. Additionally, network segmentation and access controls should be enforced to limit the potential impact of successful exploitation attempts. Regular security audits and vulnerability assessments should be conducted to identify and remediate similar issues across all web applications in the organization's infrastructure.