CVE-2005-3938 in FAQ Script
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in Softbiz FAQ Script 1.1 and earler allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the id parameter in (1) index.php, (2) faq_qanda.php, (3) refer_friend.php, (4) print_article.php, or (5) add_comment.php.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/28/2025
This vulnerability represents a critical sql injection flaw in the softbiz faq script version 11 and earlier, where remote attackers can manipulate database operations through unvalidated input parameters. The vulnerability specifically affects the id parameter across five distinct script files including indexphp faq_qandaphp refer_friendphp print_articlephp and add_commentphp, creating multiple attack vectors for malicious actors to exploit. The flaw stems from insufficient input validation and improper parameter handling within the application's database query construction logic, allowing attackers to inject malicious sql code that gets executed by the database server. This type of vulnerability directly maps to common weakness enumeration cwe 89 which categorizes sql injection as a severe security weakness that enables unauthorized data access and manipulation.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft to encompass complete database compromise and potential system infiltration. Attackers can leverage this weakness to extract sensitive information from the database, modify existing records, insert new malicious entries, or even escalate privileges within the affected system. The multi-vector nature of the exploit increases the attack surface significantly since the vulnerability exists across multiple script files, providing attackers with several potential entry points. This vulnerability particularly affects web applications that process user input without proper sanitization, making it a prime target for automated scanning tools and manual exploitation attempts.
Security professionals should implement comprehensive input validation measures to address this vulnerability, including parameterized queries, stored procedures, and strict input sanitization routines. The recommended mitigation strategies align with attack technique t1190 which focuses on exploitation of remote services and include proper input filtering, output encoding, and the principle of least privilege for database connections. Organizations should also establish robust web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems to monitor for suspicious sql injection patterns. Additionally, regular security audits and code reviews should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other application components, as sql injection remains one of the most prevalent and dangerous web application security flaws according to owasp top ten project. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of validating all user inputs and implementing proper database access controls to prevent unauthorized command execution.