CVE-2005-3933 in 88script Event Calendar
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in index.php in 88Script s Event Calendar 2.0 and earlier allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the m parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/05/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2005-3933 represents a critical SQL injection flaw within the 88Script s Event Calendar 2.0 software suite, specifically affecting versions prior to 2.0. This security weakness resides in the index.php script where user input is improperly sanitized before being incorporated into database queries. The vulnerability manifests through the m parameter which serves as an entry point for malicious actors to inject arbitrary SQL commands into the backend database system. The flaw exemplifies a classic SQL injection attack vector that has been documented in various cybersecurity frameworks and standards including CWE-89 which categorizes improper neutralization of special elements used in SQL commands as a fundamental weakness in application security.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability allows remote attackers to manipulate the database queries executed by the application without authentication or authorization. When the m parameter is submitted with malicious input, the application fails to properly validate or escape the user-supplied data before incorporating it into SQL statements. This oversight creates an opportunity for attackers to construct SQL commands that can bypass authentication mechanisms, extract sensitive data, modify database records, or even execute administrative operations on the underlying database system. The impact extends beyond simple data theft as attackers can potentially gain complete control over the database and potentially escalate their privileges to access the underlying server infrastructure.
Operationally, this vulnerability poses significant risks to organizations utilizing the 88Script s Event Calendar platform, particularly those handling sensitive information such as user credentials, personal data, or business-related calendar entries. The remote execution capability means that attackers can exploit this flaw from anywhere on the internet without requiring physical access to the system or knowledge of valid user credentials. The vulnerability affects not only the calendar functionality but can potentially compromise the entire database infrastructure, leading to data breaches, service disruption, and potential compliance violations under various regulatory frameworks. The attack surface is particularly concerning given that calendar applications often contain personal and sensitive information that can be leveraged for further attacks or identity theft.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2005-3933 should prioritize immediate remediation through software updates and patches provided by the vendor. Organizations should implement proper input validation and parameterized queries to prevent user input from being interpreted as SQL commands. The implementation of web application firewalls and database activity monitoring can provide additional layers of protection. Security practices should include regular vulnerability assessments, code reviews focusing on database query construction, and adherence to secure coding guidelines that align with industry standards such as those recommended by the Open Web Application Security Project. Additionally, network segmentation and least privilege access controls can help limit the potential impact of successful exploitation attempts. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining up-to-date software versions and implementing robust security controls throughout the application lifecycle to prevent similar issues from occurring in modern applications.