CVE-2005-3521 in e107
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in resetcore.php in e107 0.617 through 0.6173 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands, bypass authentication, and inject HTML or script via the (1) a_name parameter or (2) user field of the login page.
Be aware that VulDB is the high quality source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/11/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2005-3521 represents a critical sql injection flaw in the e107 content management system version 0.617 through 0.6173. This vulnerability exists within the resetcore.php script which handles user authentication processes. The flaw allows remote attackers to manipulate database queries through carefully crafted input parameters, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The vulnerability specifically affects two input vectors: the a_name parameter and the user field on the login page, both of which are processed without adequate input sanitization or parameter validation.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper handling of user-supplied input within sql query construction. When the resetcore.php script processes the a_name parameter or login user field, it directly incorporates these values into database queries without proper escaping or parameterization. This classic sql injection pattern enables attackers to inject malicious sql code that gets executed by the database server. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-89 which specifically addresses sql injection weaknesses in software applications. Attackers can exploit this flaw to bypass authentication mechanisms, execute arbitrary database commands, and potentially gain unauthorized access to sensitive system data.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft or modification. Successful exploitation allows attackers to completely compromise user accounts, bypass authentication controls, and execute arbitrary commands on the affected system. The ability to inject html or script code provides additional attack vectors for cross-site scripting attacks, which can be used to hijack user sessions or deface websites. This vulnerability affects the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the e107 system by enabling unauthorized access to database resources and potentially allowing attackers to escalate privileges. The attack surface is particularly concerning as it targets authentication mechanisms, which are fundamental to system security.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate patching of the affected e107 versions to the latest available releases that address the sql injection flaws. System administrators should implement proper input validation and parameterized queries throughout the application codebase to prevent similar issues. The use of web application firewalls and input sanitization mechanisms can provide additional protective layers. Organizations should also implement proper access controls and monitor database activities for suspicious query patterns. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to techniques involving credential access through authentication bypass and command execution through sql injection. Regular security assessments and code reviews should be conducted to identify and remediate similar vulnerabilities in other applications, particularly focusing on input handling and database query construction practices. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper sql injection prevention measures in web applications and highlights the need for robust security testing during development cycles.