CVE-2005-3877 in Simple Document Management System
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple SQL injection vulnerabilities in Simple Document Management System (SDMS) 2.0-CVS and earlier allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the (1) folder_id parameter in list.php and (2) mid parameter in a view action to messages.php.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/23/2025
The CVE-2005-3877 vulnerability represents a critical security flaw in the Simple Document Management System version 2.0-CVS and earlier, exposing the application to remote SQL injection attacks that can lead to complete system compromise. This vulnerability specifically targets two distinct input parameters within the application's web interface, creating multiple attack vectors for malicious actors seeking to exploit the system's database layer. The vulnerability affects the core functionality of the document management system, which is designed to handle document storage and retrieval operations through web-based interfaces that interact directly with backend databases.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and sanitization within the SDMS application's PHP scripts. Attackers can manipulate the folder_id parameter in the list.php file and the mid parameter during message viewing operations in messages.php to inject malicious SQL commands into the database query execution process. This occurs because the application directly incorporates user-supplied input into SQL queries without proper escaping or parameterization, allowing attackers to modify the intended query structure and execute arbitrary database operations. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-89 as SQL injection, which represents one of the most prevalent and dangerous web application security flaws in the industry. The attack vector is particularly concerning because it requires no authentication, enabling remote exploitation from any internet-connected device.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends far beyond simple data theft, as successful exploitation can provide attackers with complete administrative control over the database server. Attackers can retrieve, modify, or delete sensitive information stored within the document management system, potentially accessing confidential documents, user credentials, and system configuration data. The vulnerability also enables privilege escalation attacks where malicious actors can elevate their access levels to gain administrative privileges within the database environment. This type of attack aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190 for exploitation of remote services and T1078 for valid accounts usage, as attackers can leverage the compromised system to establish persistent access and move laterally within network environments. The vulnerability's persistence across multiple application modules means that exploitation can occur through various user interactions, increasing the attack surface and likelihood of successful compromise.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2005-3877 require immediate implementation of proper input validation and parameterized queries throughout the affected application code. The most effective remediation involves implementing prepared statements or parameterized queries that separate SQL command structure from user data, preventing malicious input from altering query execution. Additionally, input sanitization measures should be implemented to filter or escape special characters that could be used in SQL injection attacks, particularly focusing on characters such as single quotes, semicolons, and comment markers. Organizations should also implement proper access controls and authentication mechanisms to limit exposure, while regular security audits and code reviews should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other application components. The remediation process should follow industry standards such as OWASP Top 10 and NIST guidelines for web application security, ensuring comprehensive protection against similar injection vulnerabilities. System administrators should also monitor database logs for suspicious activity and implement network-based intrusion detection systems to identify potential exploitation attempts.