CVE-2006-2204 in IP.Board
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in the topic deletion functionality (post_delete function in func_mod.php) for Invision Power Board 2.1.5 allows remote authenticated moderators to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the selectedpids parameter, which bypasses an integer value check when the $id variable is an array.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/21/2019
The vulnerability described in CVE-2006-2204 represents a critical SQL injection flaw within the Invision Power Board 2.1.5 content management system that specifically targets the topic deletion functionality. This weakness exists in the post_delete function located within the func_mod.php file, where the application fails to properly validate user input before incorporating it into database queries. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it affects authenticated moderators, meaning that attackers who have gained moderator-level access to a forum can exploit this flaw to execute arbitrary SQL commands on the underlying database system.
The technical mechanism behind this vulnerability stems from improper input validation within the selectedpids parameter handling. When the $id variable is processed as an array rather than a single integer value, the application's validation logic becomes bypassed, allowing malicious input to be directly incorporated into SQL queries without proper sanitization. This occurs because the application assumes that the $id variable will always contain a single integer value and fails to account for cases where an array might be passed, thereby creating a pathway for attackers to inject malicious SQL code through the selectedpids parameter. The vulnerability is classified as a classic SQL injection attack vector that falls under CWE-89, which specifically addresses improper neutralization of special elements used in SQL commands.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and multifaceted, as it allows authenticated moderators to escalate their privileges and potentially gain complete control over the database backend. Attackers can leverage this flaw to extract sensitive information including user credentials, forum configuration details, and other confidential data stored within the database. The vulnerability also enables attackers to modify or delete forum content, manipulate user permissions, and potentially establish persistent backdoors within the system. Given that the application is designed for use in online communities and forums, the implications extend beyond simple data theft to include potential reputation damage, user privacy violations, and the compromise of entire community platforms.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate implementation of proper input validation and parameter sanitization measures. Organizations should ensure that all user-supplied input, particularly those used in database queries, undergo rigorous validation before processing. The fix should involve implementing strict type checking to ensure that the $id variable is always treated as a single integer value, regardless of how it is submitted. Additionally, the application should employ prepared statements or parameterized queries to prevent malicious SQL code from being executed. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1078 which covers legitimate credentials and T1046 which involves network service scanning, as attackers would likely first gain legitimate moderator access before exploiting this specific vulnerability. Regular security audits and input validation testing should be implemented to prevent similar issues in future releases and maintain the overall security posture of web applications.