CVE-2005-3817 in Web Host Directory
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple SQL injection vulnerabilities in Softbiz Web Host Directory Script 1.1 and earlier allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the (1) cid parameter in search_result.php, (2) sbres_id parameter in review.php, (3) cid parameter in browsecats.php, (4) h_id parameter in email.php, and (5) an unspecified parameter to the search module.
VulDB is the best source for vulnerability data and more expert information about this specific topic.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/02/2025
The CVE-2005-3817 vulnerability represents a critical security flaw in the Softbiz Web Host Directory Script version 1.1 and earlier, exposing multiple pathways for remote SQL injection attacks that could potentially compromise entire database systems. This vulnerability affects a widely used web directory script that facilitates hosting service listings and user interactions, making it a prime target for malicious actors seeking unauthorized database access. The flaw stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization within several key script modules, specifically targeting parameters used in database query construction. The vulnerability impacts five distinct endpoints including search_result.php, review.php, browsecats.php, email.php, and an unspecified search module, each representing a potential entry point for attackers to manipulate underlying database operations through carefully crafted malicious input.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-89, which specifically addresses SQL injection flaws where untrusted data is incorporated into SQL commands without proper sanitization. Attackers can exploit these weaknesses by injecting malicious SQL payloads through the vulnerable parameters, allowing them to execute arbitrary database commands with the privileges of the web application's database user. The cid parameter in search_result.php and browsecats.php demonstrates typical SQL injection patterns where category identifiers are directly concatenated into query strings without proper escaping or parameterization. Similarly, the sbres_id parameter in review.php and h_id parameter in email.php present comparable risks where user-supplied data flows directly into database operations. The unspecified parameter in the search module suggests a broader attack surface that could potentially affect additional functionality within the application's database interaction mechanisms.
The operational impact of CVE-2005-3817 extends far beyond simple data theft, as successful exploitation could enable attackers to perform complete database compromise including data modification, deletion, or unauthorized access to sensitive information. The vulnerability's remote nature means that attackers do not require physical access to the system and can exploit it from anywhere on the internet, making it particularly dangerous for publicly accessible web applications. Database administrators face significant risks including potential data breaches, service disruption, and compliance violations, especially in environments where personal information or business-critical data is stored. The attack surface is further expanded by the fact that these vulnerabilities exist across multiple modules, increasing the likelihood of successful exploitation and providing attackers with multiple fallback options if one attack vector is blocked. The lack of proper input validation creates a persistent risk that remains viable even after initial exploitation attempts, as the underlying code structure fails to adequately protect against malicious input patterns.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2005-3817 should prioritize immediate patching of the affected Softbiz Web Host Directory Script to the latest available version that addresses these SQL injection vulnerabilities. Organizations should implement proper input validation and parameterized queries throughout the application codebase, ensuring that all user-supplied data is properly sanitized before database interaction. The implementation of web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems can provide additional layers of protection by monitoring for suspicious SQL injection patterns in network traffic. Database access controls should be reviewed and restricted to minimize potential damage from successful attacks, ensuring that application database users have only the minimum necessary privileges. Regular security audits and penetration testing should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other applications and systems, while input validation mechanisms should be strengthened across all web applications to prevent similar injection attacks. The vulnerability also underscores the importance of keeping web applications updated and following secure coding practices, including the use of prepared statements and proper error handling to prevent information leakage that could aid attackers in their exploitation efforts.