CVE-2005-3543 in Phorum
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in search.php in Phorum 5.0.0alpha through 5.0.20, when register_globals is enabled, allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the forum_ids parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/13/2018
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2005-3543 represents a critical sql injection flaw within the Phorum bulletin board system version 5.0.0alpha through 5.0.20. This security weakness specifically targets the search.php script and exploits a dangerous condition that arises when the PHP configuration parameter register_globals is enabled. The flaw allows remote attackers to manipulate the forum_ids parameter to inject malicious sql commands that can be executed on the underlying database server. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and improper sanitization of user-supplied data before incorporating it into sql queries. When register_globals is enabled, php automatically creates variables from request data, creating an environment where user input can directly influence the execution flow of the application. This particular vulnerability falls under the CWE-89 category of sql injection, which is classified as a severe weakness in application security that can lead to complete database compromise. The attack vector is particularly dangerous because it allows arbitrary sql command execution, potentially enabling attackers to extract sensitive data, modify database contents, or even gain shell access to the underlying system.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft, as it can result in complete system compromise and unauthorized access to sensitive information. Attackers can leverage this flaw to perform unauthorized database operations including but not limited to data extraction, data modification, and privilege escalation. The vulnerability is especially concerning in environments where the web application has elevated database privileges, as it could enable attackers to execute administrative commands on the database server. The specific exploitation mechanism involves crafting malicious input for the forum_ids parameter that, when processed by the vulnerable search.php script, gets directly incorporated into sql queries without proper sanitization. This creates a pathway for attackers to bypass authentication mechanisms and execute arbitrary commands on the database layer. The vulnerability's severity is amplified by the fact that it requires only a single parameter manipulation to achieve the injection effect, making it highly exploitable and potentially automated through various attack frameworks. According to the ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to the T1190 technique of exploitation for execution, specifically targeting the database layer through sql injection methods.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2005-3543 require immediate implementation of multiple defensive measures to protect against sql injection attacks. The most critical remediation involves upgrading to a patched version of Phorum that addresses this specific vulnerability, as the original versions are no longer supported and contain known security flaws. Additionally, administrators should disable the register_globals php configuration directive to eliminate the underlying condition that enables this attack. Implementing proper input validation and parameterized queries should be enforced throughout the application to prevent similar vulnerabilities from occurring. Database access controls should be strictly enforced with minimal privileges assigned to web application accounts, ensuring that even if an injection occurs, the attacker's capabilities remain limited. Network-level defenses including web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems can provide additional monitoring and blocking capabilities for sql injection attempts. Security configurations should also include disabling error messages that might reveal database structure information to attackers. The implementation of proper output encoding and escaping mechanisms helps prevent secondary injection attacks. Organizations should also conduct regular security assessments and penetration testing to identify similar vulnerabilities within their web applications. The use of automated vulnerability scanning tools can help detect and remediate sql injection flaws before they can be exploited by malicious actors. Compliance with security standards such as those outlined in the OWASP Top Ten project should be maintained to ensure comprehensive protection against sql injection and other common web application vulnerabilities.