CVE-2005-4602 in file
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in inc/function_upload.php in MyBB before 1.0.1 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the file extension of an uploaded file attachment.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/13/2019
The vulnerability described in CVE-2005-4602 represents a critical sql injection flaw within the MyBB bulletin board software version 1.0.0 and earlier. This vulnerability exists in the inc/function_upload.php file, which handles file upload operations and processes file extension validation. The flaw allows remote attackers to inject malicious sql commands through the file extension parameter of uploaded attachments, potentially compromising the entire database infrastructure. The vulnerability specifically targets the way the software processes and validates file extensions during the upload process, creating a pathway for attackers to manipulate sql queries executed by the application.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper input validation and sanitization of file extension parameters. When users upload files through the bulletin board interface, the system processes the file extension without adequate sanitization measures. This oversight enables attackers to craft malicious file names containing sql injection payloads that get executed within the database context. The vulnerability operates at the application layer and can be exploited through web-based attacks targeting the bulletin board's file upload functionality. According to CWE classification, this represents a CWE-89: sql injection vulnerability where the injection occurs in the file extension parameter processing, making it a direct sql injection flaw that bypasses normal input validation mechanisms.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends far beyond simple data theft, as it provides attackers with complete database access and control. Successful exploitation could result in unauthorized data modification, data deletion, user account compromise, and potentially full system takeover. Attackers could extract sensitive information including user credentials, private messages, forum content, and other confidential data stored within the MyBB database. The vulnerability affects the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the entire bulletin board system, as demonstrated by the ATT&CK framework's T1190: exploit public-facing application technique. Organizations using vulnerable MyBB versions face significant risk of data breaches and system compromise, particularly in environments where the bulletin board serves as a primary communication platform for sensitive information exchange.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate patching of the MyBB software to version 1.0.1 or later, which includes proper input validation and sanitization of file extension parameters. System administrators should implement additional security controls including web application firewalls, input validation at multiple layers, and regular security audits of uploaded file handling mechanisms. The fix typically involves implementing proper sql parameterization and escaping of user inputs, ensuring that file extension validation occurs before any database operations are performed. Organizations should also consider implementing upload restrictions such as file type whitelisting, size limitations, and content verification measures. Network segmentation and monitoring of file upload activities can help detect suspicious behavior and prevent exploitation attempts, aligning with ATT&CK techniques for defensive measures against application layer attacks.