CVE-2006-5121 in PostNuke
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in modules/Downloads/admin.php in the Admin section of PostNuke 0.762 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the hits parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/23/2026
The CVE-2006-5121 vulnerability represents a critical sql injection flaw within the PostNuke content management system version 0.762, specifically targeting the downloads module administrative interface. This vulnerability exists in the admin.php file located within the modules/Downloads directory, making it accessible through the web application's administrative section. The flaw manifests when the hits parameter is processed without proper input validation or sanitization, creating an exploitable condition that allows malicious actors to inject arbitrary sql commands directly into the database layer.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper parameter handling within the administrative php script. When an attacker submits malicious input through the hits parameter, the application fails to sanitize or escape the input before incorporating it into sql queries. This lack of input validation creates a direct pathway for sql injection attacks, enabling threat actors to manipulate the underlying database through crafted payloads. The vulnerability is classified as a classic sql injection vector where user-controllable data is concatenated directly into sql statements without appropriate security measures such as parameterized queries or input sanitization routines.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data manipulation, as it provides attackers with extensive privileges within the affected system. Successful exploitation allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary sql commands, potentially leading to complete database compromise, data exfiltration, unauthorized user account creation, and privilege escalation within the administrative interface. The attack surface is particularly concerning because it targets the administrative section of the application, which typically contains sensitive configuration data, user credentials, and system management functions. This vulnerability can be exploited by unauthenticated attackers who only need to access the downloads module admin interface to gain significant control over the entire application.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2006-5121 should prioritize immediate patching of the affected PostNuke version, as this vulnerability was addressed in subsequent releases. Organizations should implement proper input validation and sanitization measures, including the adoption of parameterized queries or prepared statements to prevent sql injection attacks. The principle of least privilege should be enforced within the administrative interface, limiting access to authorized personnel only. Additionally, network segmentation and web application firewalls can provide additional layers of protection. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-89 sql injection and can be mapped to ATT&CK techniques including T1190 for exploitation of vulnerabilities and T1078 for valid accounts usage, demonstrating how such flaws can enable broader attack chains within compromised environments.