CVE-2006-5514 in Web Group Communication Center
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in quiz.php in Web Group Communication Center (WGCC) 0.5.6b and earlier allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the qzid parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/25/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2006-5514 represents a critical SQL injection flaw within the Web Group Communication Center version 0.5.6b and earlier releases. This vulnerability exists in the quiz.php script which forms part of the web application's interactive quiz functionality. The flaw arises from inadequate input validation and sanitization practices within the application's parameter handling mechanisms, specifically affecting the qzid parameter that is used to identify quiz instances. The vulnerability enables remote attackers to manipulate the underlying database queries by injecting malicious SQL code through the targeted parameter.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the application's failure to properly escape or filter user-supplied input before incorporating it into database queries. When the qzid parameter is processed, the application directly concatenates user input into SQL command strings without appropriate sanitization measures. This creates an exploitable condition where an attacker can craft malicious input that alters the intended execution flow of database operations. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-89 which specifically addresses SQL injection weaknesses in software applications, representing a fundamental flaw in data validation and query construction practices. Attackers can leverage this weakness to execute unauthorized database operations including data retrieval, modification, deletion, or even privilege escalation within the database environment.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data compromise, as it provides attackers with significant control over the application's database backend. Remote execution of arbitrary SQL commands allows threat actors to extract sensitive information from database tables, potentially including user credentials, personal data, or system configuration details. The vulnerability also enables attackers to modify or delete database content, potentially causing data integrity issues or complete system disruption. Furthermore, successful exploitation could lead to privilege escalation within the database, allowing attackers to gain elevated access rights and potentially establish persistent access points within the target environment. This vulnerability directly aligns with ATT&CK technique T1071.004 for application layer protocol usage and T1190 for exploit public-facing application, demonstrating how attackers can leverage web application flaws to achieve their objectives.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate implementation of proper input validation and parameterized query construction. The most effective approach involves replacing direct string concatenation of user input with prepared statements or parameterized queries that separate SQL command structure from data values. Application developers should implement strict input validation that filters or rejects suspicious characters and patterns commonly associated with SQL injection attacks. Additionally, the principle of least privilege should be enforced at the database level, ensuring that application accounts have minimal required permissions to reduce potential damage from successful exploitation attempts. Regular security audits and code reviews should be conducted to identify and remediate similar vulnerabilities throughout the application codebase, while also implementing proper error handling that prevents information leakage from database errors. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems to monitor for exploitation attempts targeting this specific vulnerability class.