CVE-2007-3052 in PNphpBB
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in index.php in the PNphpBB2 1.2i and earlier module for PostNuke allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the c parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/20/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-3052 represents a critical sql injection flaw within the PNphpBB2 module version 1.2i and earlier implementations running on PostNuke platforms. This security weakness specifically manifests in the index.php script where user input is improperly handled, creating an exploitable condition that enables malicious actors to inject and execute arbitrary sql commands. The vulnerability affects the core functionality of the phpbb2 module integration within the PostNuke content management framework, making it a significant concern for organizations relying on this particular software stack.
The technical exploitation occurs through the c parameter within the index.php file, which serves as the primary attack vector for sql injection attempts. When the application processes this parameter without adequate input validation or sanitization, it allows attackers to append malicious sql code that gets executed within the database context. This flaw directly maps to common weakness enumerations such as CWE-89, which categorizes sql injection vulnerabilities as a fundamental issue in application security where untrusted data is directly incorporated into sql queries without proper escaping or parameterization. The vulnerability demonstrates a classic lack of proper input sanitization that violates fundamental security principles for data handling.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft, as it provides attackers with the capability to execute arbitrary commands on the underlying database server. This can result in complete database compromise, data exfiltration, modification of critical information, or even escalation to full system control depending on the database permissions and underlying infrastructure configuration. The remote nature of the attack means that exploitation can occur from any location without requiring physical access to the system, making it particularly dangerous for web applications that are publicly accessible. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to gain unauthorized access to sensitive information, manipulate forum content, or establish persistent access points within the affected network environment.
Organizations affected by this vulnerability should implement immediate mitigations including input validation and parameterized query implementation to prevent sql injection attacks. The recommended approach involves sanitizing all user inputs through proper escaping mechanisms or utilizing prepared statements that separate sql code from data. Additionally, applying the latest security patches provided by the PostNuke development team or migrating to more secure forum solutions represents the most effective long-term solution. Security monitoring should include detection of suspicious sql patterns and unusual database access patterns that may indicate exploitation attempts. According to ATT&CK framework methodology, this vulnerability would be classified under the T1190 technique for exploitation of remote services and T1071.004 for application layer protocol usage, highlighting the multi-faceted nature of the threat. System administrators should also consider implementing web application firewalls and database activity monitoring solutions to provide additional layers of protection against similar sql injection vulnerabilities. The vulnerability underscores the importance of maintaining current security practices and regular vulnerability assessments to identify and remediate similar weaknesses in legacy applications.