CVE-2008-0879 in Web Links Module
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in modules.php in the Web_Links module for PHP-Nuke allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the cid parameter in a viewlink action.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/13/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-0879 represents a critical SQL injection flaw within the Web_Links module of PHP-Nuke content management system. This weakness resides in the modules.php script where the cid parameter is improperly handled during the viewlink action, creating an avenue for malicious actors to manipulate database queries through crafted input. The vulnerability falls under the CWE-89 category, which specifically addresses SQL injection vulnerabilities that occur when user-supplied data is directly incorporated into SQL commands without proper sanitization or parameterization.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability enables remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands against the underlying database system. When the cid parameter is passed through the viewlink action, the application fails to validate or escape the input before incorporating it into database queries. This allows an attacker to inject malicious SQL syntax that can alter the intended query execution flow, potentially leading to unauthorized data access, modification, or deletion. The attack vector is particularly dangerous because it requires no authentication and can be executed from any remote location, making it highly accessible to threat actors.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data compromise, as successful exploitation can result in complete database exposure and potential system compromise. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to extract sensitive information such as user credentials, personal data, and administrative access details stored within the database. The vulnerability also enables privilege escalation scenarios where attackers might gain administrative control over the PHP-Nuke installation, potentially leading to full system compromise. Additionally, the compromised system could serve as a launchpad for further attacks within the network infrastructure.
Security mitigations for CVE-2008-0879 should focus on implementing proper input validation and parameterized queries to prevent SQL injection attacks. Organizations should immediately apply the vendor-provided patches or upgrade to secure versions of PHP-Nuke that address this vulnerability. The implementation of web application firewalls and input sanitization measures can provide additional layers of protection. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to T1190 (Exploit Public-Facing Application) and T1071.004 (Application Layer Protocol: DNS), as attackers may use this weakness to establish persistent access and exfiltrate data. Regular security assessments and code reviews should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other application components, ensuring comprehensive protection against SQL injection threats.