CVE-2008-1220 in 4nChat
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in the 4nChat 0.91 module for PHP-Nuke allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the roomid parameter in an index action to modules.php. NOTE: the provenance of this information is unknown; the details are obtained solely from third party information.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/09/2025
The CVE-2008-1220 vulnerability represents a critical sql injection flaw within the 4nChat 0.91 module for PHP-Nuke platforms. This vulnerability specifically targets the roomid parameter handling within the index action of the modules.php file, creating a pathway for remote attackers to execute arbitrary sql commands against the underlying database system. The vulnerability's classification as a sql injection issue places it squarely within the purview of common weakness enumeration cwe-89, which specifically addresses improper neutralization of special elements used in sql commands. The attack vector leverages the lack of proper input sanitization and validation mechanisms within the 4nChat module, allowing malicious actors to manipulate sql query structures through crafted roomid parameter values.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft or manipulation, as it provides attackers with the capability to execute arbitrary commands on the database server. This fundamental breach in application security enables unauthorized access to sensitive user data, potential system compromise, and the ability to modify or delete database records. The vulnerability affects systems running PHP-Nuke with the 4nChat 0.91 module, making it particularly concerning for web applications that rely on this content management framework. The remote nature of the attack means that exploitation can occur from any location without requiring physical access to the target system, significantly expanding the potential threat surface.
From a threat modeling perspective, this vulnerability aligns with several attack techniques documented in the mitre att&ck framework, particularly those related to command and control operations and credential access. The ability to execute arbitrary sql commands provides attackers with multiple attack paths including data exfiltration, privilege escalation, and potential lateral movement within the compromised environment. The lack of verified source information regarding the vulnerability's discovery and exploitation details underscores the importance of proactive security measures and regular vulnerability assessments. Organizations utilizing PHP-Nuke platforms with the 4nChat module should consider this vulnerability as a high-priority risk requiring immediate remediation.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2008-1220 should focus on implementing proper input validation and parameter sanitization techniques to prevent sql injection attacks. The recommended approach includes implementing prepared statements or parameterized queries to separate sql command structure from data values, thereby eliminating the risk of malicious sql code execution. Additionally, organizations should implement proper access controls and input filtering mechanisms within the modules.php file, particularly around the roomid parameter handling. The vulnerability's age and the specific module version indicate that the most effective long-term solution involves upgrading to patched versions of both PHP-Nuke and the 4nChat module, or implementing comprehensive web application firewalls that can detect and prevent sql injection attempts. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be conducted to identify similar issues within the broader application ecosystem.