CVE-2006-4709 in Vikingboard
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in topic.php in Vikingboard 0.1b allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the s parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/04/2018
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2006-4709 represents a critical sql injection flaw within the Vikingboard 0.1b bulletin board system, specifically affecting the topic.php script. This vulnerability resides in the handling of user input through the s parameter, which is processed without adequate sanitization or validation mechanisms. The flaw enables remote attackers to inject malicious sql commands directly into the application's database layer, potentially compromising the entire system's data integrity and confidentiality. The vulnerability classification aligns with cwe-89 which specifically addresses sql injection vulnerabilities where untrusted data is incorporated into sql queries without proper escaping or parameterization techniques.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker submits malicious input through the s parameter in topic.php, allowing the application to execute unintended sql commands against the underlying database. This flaw stems from improper input validation and sanitization practices within the application's codebase, where user-supplied data flows directly into sql query construction without appropriate filtering or escaping mechanisms. The vulnerability demonstrates a classic sql injection attack vector that can be leveraged to extract sensitive information, modify database contents, or even gain unauthorized access to the database server itself. Attackers can potentially escalate privileges and execute administrative commands through this injection point, making the vulnerability particularly dangerous in multi-user environments.
The operational impact of CVE-2006-4709 extends beyond simple data theft to encompass complete system compromise and potential denial of service conditions. Remote attackers can exploit this vulnerability to access confidential user data, including passwords, personal information, and forum discussions that may contain sensitive business or personal details. The vulnerability also enables attackers to manipulate forum content, delete threads, or create malicious posts that could spread further within the community. Additionally, the flaw may allow for privilege escalation attacks where attackers can elevate their access levels to administrator privileges, fundamentally compromising the security posture of the entire bulletin board system. This vulnerability directly violates security principles outlined in the owasp top ten project, specifically addressing injection flaws that remain among the most critical web application security risks.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2006-4709 must focus on implementing proper input validation and parameterized query execution throughout the application codebase. The most effective approach involves replacing direct sql query construction with prepared statements or parameterized queries that separate sql code from user input data. Organizations should implement comprehensive input sanitization measures, including character set validation, length restrictions, and pattern matching to prevent malicious payloads from reaching the database layer. Additionally, application-level firewall rules and intrusion detection systems should be configured to monitor for suspicious sql injection patterns targeting the affected parameter. Regular security assessments and code reviews should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other application components, following the principle of least privilege where database connections use minimal required permissions. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of keeping web applications updated with the latest security patches and following secure coding practices that align with industry standards such as those defined by the cwe organization and the mitre corporation's attack framework.