CVE-2005-4359 in ODFaq
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in includes/core.inc.php in ODFaq 2.1.0 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the (1) cat and (2) srcText parameters to faq.php.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/15/2018
The vulnerability described in CVE-2005-4359 represents a critical sql injection flaw within the ODFaq 2.1.0 web application that exposes sensitive data and system integrity risks. This vulnerability specifically affects the includes/core.inc.php file and manifests through the faq.php script when processing two distinct parameters named cat and srcText. The flaw allows remote attackers to inject malicious sql commands directly into the application's database layer, bypassing normal authentication and authorization mechanisms that should protect against unauthorized database access. This type of vulnerability falls under the common weakness enumeration category CWE-89, which specifically addresses sql injection vulnerabilities that occur when untrusted data is incorporated into sql queries without proper sanitization or parameterization.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when user-supplied input from the cat and srcText parameters is directly concatenated into sql query strings without adequate validation or escaping mechanisms. Attackers can craft malicious input that alters the intended sql query structure, potentially allowing them to extract database contents, modify or delete records, or even execute administrative commands on the underlying database system. The impact extends beyond simple data theft as it can enable attackers to escalate privileges and gain deeper access to the application's backend infrastructure. This vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it affects core application functionality and can be exploited through standard web browser interactions without requiring special tools or extensive technical knowledge.
The operational impact of CVE-2005-4359 is severe and multifaceted, affecting both data confidentiality and system integrity within the ODFaq application environment. Organizations using this vulnerable version face potential data breaches that could expose sensitive information stored in the database, including user credentials, system configurations, or proprietary content managed through the faq system. The vulnerability also creates opportunities for attackers to manipulate the application's behavior, potentially leading to service disruption or unauthorized access to administrative functions. This type of vulnerability aligns with the attack pattern described in the attack tree framework where initial access through web application exploitation leads to privilege escalation and persistent access within the target environment. The vulnerability affects the application's authentication and authorization mechanisms by allowing unauthorized users to bypass normal access controls and execute database operations that should be restricted.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability must address both immediate remediation and long-term security improvements within the application architecture. The primary solution involves implementing proper input validation and parameterized queries to prevent malicious sql code from being executed within database contexts. Developers should sanitize all user inputs through proper escaping mechanisms or utilize prepared statements that separate sql logic from data values. Additionally, implementing proper access controls and authentication measures within the application helps limit the potential damage from exploitation attempts. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems to monitor for suspicious sql injection patterns. The vulnerability highlights the importance of following secure coding practices and adhering to industry standards such as the owasp top ten security risks, which consistently identifies sql injection as one of the most critical web application vulnerabilities requiring immediate attention and remediation.