CVE-2008-0388 in Wp Forum
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in the WP-Forum 1.7.4 plugin for WordPress allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the user parameter in a showprofile action to the default URI.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/14/2024
The CVE-2008-0388 vulnerability represents a critical sql injection flaw within the WP-Forum 1.7.4 plugin for WordPress, a widely deployed content management system that powers millions of websites worldwide. This vulnerability specifically affects the plugin's handling of user input within the showprofile action, creating an exploitable condition that enables remote attackers to manipulate the underlying database through crafted sql commands. The vulnerability exists due to insufficient input validation and sanitization of the user parameter, which is processed directly within sql query construction without proper escaping or parameterization mechanisms.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the plugin's failure to properly sanitize user-supplied data before incorporating it into database queries. When a user accesses the showprofile action with a malicious user parameter, the plugin constructs sql statements that directly concatenate user input without appropriate sql escaping or prepared statement usage. This design flaw aligns with common weakness enumeration CWE-89, which categorizes sql injection vulnerabilities as a result of inadequate input validation and improper sql query construction. The vulnerability specifically impacts the plugin's default uri handling mechanism, making it accessible through standard web application interfaces without requiring privileged access or complex exploitation techniques.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft, as remote attackers can execute arbitrary sql commands that may lead to complete database compromise, data exfiltration, and potential system infiltration. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to retrieve sensitive user information, modify database contents, escalate privileges, or even gain shell access to the underlying server if proper database security measures are not in place. The vulnerability's remote exploitability means that attackers can target vulnerable installations from anywhere on the internet without requiring physical access or local network presence, making it particularly dangerous for web applications that do not properly implement security controls. This type of vulnerability is categorized under the attack technique T1071.004 in the ATT&CK framework, which covers application layer protocol manipulation.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2008-0388 require immediate action to address the underlying sql injection vulnerability through proper input validation and parameterized query implementation. System administrators should upgrade to patched versions of the WP-Forum plugin or implement proper sql escaping mechanisms that prevent user input from being interpreted as sql commands. Additionally, implementing web application firewalls and database access controls can provide defense-in-depth measures to prevent exploitation attempts. The vulnerability highlights the importance of proper input sanitization practices and demonstrates how legacy plugins can pose significant security risks when they lack modern security implementation patterns. Organizations should also consider implementing database query logging and monitoring to detect potential exploitation attempts and maintain compliance with security standards such as those outlined in the OWASP Top Ten project.