CVE-2005-3536 in phpBB
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in phpBB 2 before 2.0.18 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the topic type.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/12/2019
The CVE-2005-3536 vulnerability represents a critical sql injection flaw in phpBB version 2.0.17 and earlier, which enables remote attackers to execute arbitrary sql commands through manipulated topic type parameters. This vulnerability specifically targets the phpBB bulletin board system, a widely deployed open source web application used for online forums and community discussions. The flaw arises from insufficient input validation and sanitization within the application's handling of topic type parameters, creating an exploitable entry point for malicious actors to manipulate the underlying database queries. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it allows attackers to bypass authentication mechanisms and potentially gain complete control over the affected system.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper parameter handling in the phpBB application's sql query construction process. When users create or modify topics, the application processes topic type values without adequate sanitization, allowing sql metacharacters to be interpreted as part of the sql command rather than as literal data. This occurs at the application layer where user-supplied data flows directly into sql statements without proper escaping or parameterization. The vulnerability is classified under cwe-89 sql injection within the attack tree framework, specifically manifesting as a classic sql injection attack vector. According to the mitre attack framework, this vulnerability maps to techniques involving command execution and privilege escalation through database manipulation.
The operational impact of CVE-2005-3536 extends far beyond simple data theft, as successful exploitation can lead to complete system compromise and unauthorized access to sensitive information. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to retrieve, modify, or delete database records including user credentials, forum content, and system configuration data. The vulnerability affects not only individual user accounts but can also provide attackers with persistent access to the entire forum infrastructure. Organizations running vulnerable phpBB installations face significant risks including data breaches, service disruption, and potential regulatory compliance violations. The attack surface is particularly concerning for websites hosting sensitive community discussions or user-generated content where the exposure of personal information could result in identity theft or other malicious activities.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability center around immediate patching and implementation of proper input validation measures. The most effective solution involves upgrading to phpBB version 2.0.18 or later, which includes proper sanitization of topic type parameters and improved sql query handling. Organizations should also implement web application firewalls to detect and block sql injection attempts, while establishing proper input validation routines that escape special sql characters and validate data types before processing. Additional defensive measures include implementing least privilege database accounts with restricted permissions, regularly monitoring database logs for suspicious activity, and conducting thorough security testing of web applications. The vulnerability serves as a prime example of why proper input validation and secure coding practices are essential in web application development, as outlined in owasp top ten security risks and secure coding guidelines.