CVE-2006-0545 in UBB.threads
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in showflat.php in Groupee (formerly known as Infopop) UBB.threads 6.3 and earlier allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the Number parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/18/2018
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2006-0545 represents a critical SQL injection flaw within the Groupee platform formerly known as Infopop UBB.threads version 6.3 and earlier. This vulnerability specifically affects the showflat.php script which processes user input through the Number parameter, creating an avenue for malicious actors to manipulate database queries and potentially gain unauthorized access to sensitive information. The flaw stems from insufficient input validation and sanitization practices within the application's query construction logic, allowing attackers to inject malicious SQL code that executes with the privileges of the database user account.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability demonstrates a classic SQL injection attack vector where the Number parameter in showflat.php fails to properly escape or validate user-supplied data before incorporating it into database queries. When an attacker submits malicious input through this parameter, the application processes the data without adequate sanitization, enabling the execution of arbitrary SQL commands against the underlying database system. This type of vulnerability falls under CWE-89 which specifically addresses SQL injection weaknesses in software applications. The flaw represents a fundamental breakdown in the application's data handling security mechanisms, particularly in how it processes and incorporates user input into database operations.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft to encompass complete database compromise and potential system infiltration. Remote attackers can leverage this vulnerability to execute commands such as data retrieval, modification, or deletion, potentially leading to unauthorized access to user accounts, forum content, and system configurations. The attack surface is particularly concerning as it allows for remote exploitation without requiring authentication, making it a prime target for automated scanning tools and malicious actors seeking to compromise forum installations. The vulnerability also aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190 which describes the exploitation of vulnerabilities in applications to gain access to systems and data.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2006-0545 require immediate remediation through proper input validation and parameterized query implementation. Organizations should implement proper input sanitization techniques to prevent malicious SQL code from being executed, including the use of prepared statements and parameterized queries that separate SQL code from data. The most effective long-term solution involves upgrading to a patched version of Groupee UBB.threads that addresses this vulnerability, as the original version contains fundamental security flaws that cannot be adequately mitigated through workarounds. Additionally, implementing web application firewalls, database activity monitoring, and regular security assessments can help detect and prevent exploitation attempts while maintaining proper access controls and database user privilege management to limit potential damage from successful attacks.