CVE-2005-4479 in phpSlash
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in article.php in phpSlash 0.8.1 and earlier allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the story_id parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/21/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2005-4479 represents a critical sql injection flaw within the phpSlash content management system version 0.8.1 and earlier. This vulnerability exists in the article.php script which processes user input through the story_id parameter, creating an exploitable condition that allows remote attackers to manipulate the underlying database queries. The flaw stems from insufficient input validation and sanitization mechanisms that fail to properly escape or filter user-supplied data before incorporating it into sql command structures.
This sql injection vulnerability operates under the common weakness enumeration CWE-89 which categorizes improper neutralization of special elements used in sql commands. The attack vector specifically targets the story_id parameter where an attacker can inject malicious sql payloads that bypass normal input validation procedures. When the application processes this parameter without adequate sanitization, the injected sql code gets executed within the database context, potentially granting attackers full control over database operations including data retrieval, modification, or deletion.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data compromise as it enables attackers to perform extensive database manipulation operations. Remote attackers can exploit this flaw to extract sensitive information from the database, modify existing records, insert new malicious entries, or even escalate privileges within the database environment. The vulnerability affects the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the phpSlash application's data storage layer, potentially leading to complete system compromise if the database contains administrative credentials or sensitive user information. The remote nature of the attack means that exploitation can occur from any location without requiring physical access to the system.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2005-4479 should focus on implementing proper input validation and parameterized queries to prevent sql injection attacks. Organizations should upgrade to phpSlash version 0.8.2 or later where this vulnerability has been addressed through proper input sanitization measures. The implementation of prepared statements or parameterized queries should replace direct sql string concatenation when handling user input. Additionally, the principle of least privilege should be enforced by ensuring database accounts used by phpSlash have minimal required permissions. Network-level protections including firewalls and intrusion detection systems can help monitor for suspicious sql injection patterns. Security patches should be applied immediately, and regular security assessments should verify that input validation mechanisms remain effective against evolving attack techniques. This vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper input validation and follows established security practices outlined in the ATT&CK framework under the command and control phase where adversaries establish persistent access through database manipulation techniques.