CVE-2005-4001 in phpYellowTM Pro
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple SQL injection vulnerabilities in phpYellowTM Pro Edition and Lite Edition 5.33 allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the (1) haystack parameter to search_result.php or (2) ckey parameter to print_me.php.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/26/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2005-4001 represents a critical security flaw affecting phpYellow content management systems in both Pro and Lite editions version 5.33. This issue stems from inadequate input validation mechanisms that fail to properly sanitize user-supplied data before incorporating it into database queries. The vulnerability manifests through two distinct attack vectors that exploit the same underlying architectural weakness, making it particularly dangerous as it provides multiple pathways for exploitation.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs within two specific phpYellow scripts: search_result.php and print_me.php. In the first vector, the haystack parameter in search_result.php receives user input without proper sanitization, allowing attackers to inject malicious SQL code that gets executed within the database context. Similarly, the ckey parameter in print_me.php presents the same risk, where unfiltered input leads to SQL injection opportunities. These flaws directly map to CWE-89, which classifies SQL injection vulnerabilities as a fundamental weakness in application security where untrusted data is improperly integrated into SQL command structures. The vulnerability operates at the application layer and can be classified under ATT&CK technique T1190, which describes exploiting vulnerabilities in web applications.
The operational impact of CVE-2005-4001 extends beyond simple data theft, as successful exploitation can enable attackers to execute arbitrary database commands with the privileges of the web application. This capability allows for complete database compromise, including data exfiltration, modification of content, user account manipulation, and potential escalation to system-level access. Attackers could leverage this vulnerability to gain persistent access to the web application, potentially leading to full system compromise and serving as a foothold for further network infiltration. The remote nature of the attack means that exploitation does not require physical access to the system, making it particularly dangerous for web-based applications.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on implementing robust input validation and output encoding mechanisms throughout the application. The most effective immediate solution involves parameterized queries or prepared statements that separate SQL command structure from user data, preventing malicious input from altering the intended database operations. Additionally, implementing proper input sanitization routines that filter or escape special characters commonly used in SQL injection attacks such as single quotes, semicolons, and comment markers provides essential protection. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems to monitor for suspicious SQL injection patterns. Regular security audits and penetration testing should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other application components, while application code reviews should enforce secure coding practices to prevent future occurrences of this type of weakness. The vulnerability highlights the critical importance of following secure coding guidelines and maintaining up-to-date security practices in web application development.