CVE-2006-3168 in CS-Forum
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in CS-Forum before 0.82 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the (1) id and (2) debut parameters in (a) read.php, and the (3) search and (4) debut parameters in (b) index.php.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/01/2017
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2006-3168 represents a critical sql injection flaw in the CS-Forum software prior to version 0.82. This vulnerability resides in the web application's handling of user-supplied input parameters within two distinct php scripts. The flaw allows remote attackers to manipulate the database query execution by injecting malicious sql code through specific parameter manipulation. The vulnerability affects the read.php script where the id and debut parameters are susceptible to injection attacks, and additionally impacts the index.php script through the search and debut parameters. This sql injection vulnerability falls under the common weakness enumeration CWE-89 which specifically addresses improper neutralization of special elements used in sql commands. The attack vector operates through unvalidated user input that gets directly concatenated into sql queries without proper sanitization or parameterization mechanisms.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft as it enables full database compromise. Attackers can execute arbitrary sql commands including but not limited to data extraction, modification, or deletion of database records. The vulnerability's scope is particularly concerning as it affects core forum functionality where user data is processed. The read.php script handles individual post viewing, while index.php manages search and display operations, making these attack points critical for forum administrators. The vulnerability's exploitation potential aligns with the attack technique described in the mitre ATT&CK framework under T1190 - exploit public-facing application, where attackers target web applications for database access. The lack of input validation creates a persistent risk where any user with access to the forum interface can potentially exploit these parameters to gain unauthorized database access.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability demonstrates poor input validation practices within the CS-Forum application. When user parameters are passed directly into sql queries without proper sanitization, the application becomes vulnerable to malicious input that can alter the intended query execution flow. The specific parameters id, debut, and search are all susceptible because they are directly incorporated into sql statements without appropriate escaping or parameter binding. This vulnerability type is particularly dangerous in web applications where database credentials are often stored in configuration files and accessible to the web application process. The exploitation of such vulnerabilities typically requires minimal technical skill and can be automated through various sql injection frameworks, making it a significant risk for any organization running vulnerable versions of CS-Forum. The vulnerability's classification as remote means that attackers do not require local system access or physical presence to exploit the flaw, further increasing its threat profile.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2006-3168 should focus on immediate patching of the CS-Forum application to version 0.82 or later where the vulnerability has been addressed. Organizations should implement proper input validation and sanitization mechanisms including parameterized queries or prepared statements to prevent sql injection attacks. The implementation of web application firewalls and input filtering rules can provide additional protection layers. Security configurations should include regular vulnerability scanning and code review processes to identify similar flaws in other applications. Database access controls should be implemented to limit the privileges of database accounts used by web applications, following the principle of least privilege. Organizations should also consider implementing intrusion detection systems that can monitor for sql injection attack patterns and maintain regular security updates for all web applications in their infrastructure. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of secure coding practices and regular security assessments in preventing database compromise scenarios.