CVE-2005-3799 in phpBB
Summary
by MITRE
phpBB 2.0.18 allows remote attackers to obtain sensitive information via a large SQL query, which generates an error message that reveals SQL syntax or the full installation path.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/13/2018
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2005-3799 affects phpBB version 2.0.18 and represents a sensitive information disclosure flaw that can be exploited by remote attackers. This vulnerability arises from improper error handling within the application's database query processing mechanism, specifically when handling large or malformed SQL queries. The flaw allows malicious actors to construct specially crafted SQL queries that trigger error messages containing sensitive technical information. These error messages typically reveal either the underlying SQL syntax structure or the complete file system path where the phpBB installation resides, providing attackers with critical information for subsequent exploitation attempts.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from phpBB's insufficient sanitization and error management practices during database operations. When a large SQL query is submitted to the application, the system fails to properly validate or limit the query size, resulting in database engine errors that are then exposed to end users. This behavior aligns with CWE-209, which addresses error message information exposure, and represents a classic example of how poor input validation can lead to information disclosure vulnerabilities. The error messages generated by the database engine contain not only SQL syntax details but also reveal the absolute file path of the phpBB installation, which can be leveraged for path traversal attacks or to understand the server environment configuration.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability creates significant security risks for organizations running affected phpBB installations. The disclosure of SQL syntax information enables attackers to better understand the database structure and potentially craft more sophisticated attacks against the application. The revelation of the full installation path provides attackers with precise knowledge of the server's file system layout, which can be used to identify other potential attack vectors or to exploit additional vulnerabilities. This information disclosure can serve as a foundation for privilege escalation attacks or as part of a broader reconnaissance phase in a multi-stage attack approach. The vulnerability particularly affects web applications that rely on phpBB for forum functionality, making it a significant concern for websites hosting user-generated content or community discussions.
The mitigation strategies for CVE-2005-3799 should focus on implementing proper error handling mechanisms and input validation controls. Organizations should upgrade to phpBB version 2.0.19 or later, which includes patches addressing this specific vulnerability. Additionally, administrators should configure the application to suppress detailed error messages from database operations and implement generic error pages that do not reveal system internals. The implementation of proper input sanitization and query size limitations can prevent the conditions that trigger these error messages. Security controls should also include monitoring for unusual query patterns and implementing web application firewalls that can detect and block suspicious SQL query constructs. This vulnerability demonstrates the importance of following secure coding practices as outlined in the OWASP Top Ten and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1212, which covers exploitation for credential access through information discovery. Organizations should also consider implementing defense-in-depth strategies including regular security assessments and maintaining up-to-date vulnerability management processes to prevent similar issues from occurring in other components of their web infrastructure.