CVE-2005-3594 in e107
Summary
by MITRE
game_score.php in e107 allows remote attackers to insert high scores via HTTP POST methods utilizing the $player_name, $player_score, and $game_name variables.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/11/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2005-3594 affects the game_score.php script within the e107 content management system, representing a critical security flaw that enables remote code execution through improper input validation. This issue specifically targets the handling of HTTP POST parameters including player_name, player_score, and game_name variables, which are processed without adequate sanitization or authentication checks. The vulnerability exists due to insufficient validation of user-supplied data, creating an avenue for malicious actors to manipulate the scoring system and potentially gain unauthorized access to system resources.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the lack of proper input filtering and validation within the game_score.php script. When the system receives HTTP POST requests containing these three variables, it directly incorporates them into database operations without performing necessary security checks. This primitive approach to data handling creates a path for attackers to inject malicious content through the player_name parameter, which could potentially contain executable code or database injection payloads. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-20 as "Improper Input Validation" and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1210 "Exploitation for Execution" through the exploitation of weak input sanitization mechanisms.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple score manipulation, as it provides attackers with potential access to the underlying database and system resources. An attacker could leverage this flaw to insert malicious entries that might trigger additional security issues, such as SQL injection attacks that could compromise entire database systems. The vulnerability allows for arbitrary code execution through carefully crafted POST requests, potentially enabling attackers to escalate privileges, modify game data, or even gain shell access to the server hosting the e107 application. This represents a significant risk to organizations relying on the platform for game score tracking and user engagement features.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2005-3594 should focus on implementing comprehensive input validation and sanitization measures within the game_score.php script. Organizations should immediately apply security patches released by the e107 development team and implement proper parameter validation for all user-supplied input. The recommended approach includes implementing strict whitelisting of acceptable characters and lengths for player_name variables, sanitizing all input data before database insertion, and enforcing proper authentication mechanisms for score submission. Additionally, implementing web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems can provide additional layers of protection against exploitation attempts. Regular security audits and code reviews should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other components of the application stack, following the principle of least privilege and secure coding practices as outlined in industry standards such as the OWASP Top Ten and NIST cybersecurity frameworks.