CVE-2008-1305 in Filebase Module
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in filebase.php in the Filebase mod for phpBB allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the id parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/15/2025
The CVE-2008-1305 vulnerability represents a critical sql injection flaw within the filebase mod for phpbb platforms. This vulnerability specifically targets the filebase.php script which serves as a component for managing file uploads and downloads within phpbb forums. The flaw arises from insufficient input validation and sanitization of user-supplied data, creating an exploitable entry point for malicious actors seeking to compromise the underlying database infrastructure. The vulnerability is classified as a remote code execution vector through sql injection techniques, allowing attackers to manipulate database queries without proper authentication or authorization.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs through the improper handling of the id parameter within the filebase.php script. When users interact with the filebase functionality, the id parameter is directly incorporated into sql queries without adequate sanitization or parameterization. This creates a scenario where an attacker can inject malicious sql code through the id parameter, potentially bypassing authentication mechanisms and gaining unauthorized access to sensitive database information. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it operates at the database interaction layer, where successful exploitation can lead to complete database compromise including data extraction, modification, or deletion. This flaw aligns with CWE-89 which specifically addresses sql injection vulnerabilities and represents a fundamental breakdown in input validation practices.
The operational impact of CVE-2008-1305 extends beyond simple data theft to encompass complete system compromise and potential denial of service conditions. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to extract user credentials, forum configuration data, and other sensitive information stored within the database. The remote nature of the exploit means that attackers do not require physical access to the server or local network privileges to exploit the vulnerability, making it particularly dangerous for publicly accessible phpbb installations. Additionally, successful exploitation can enable attackers to modify forum content, inject malicious code into the platform, or even escalate privileges within the database environment. This vulnerability directly impacts the integrity and availability of phpbb forums, potentially affecting thousands of users depending on the scale of the compromised installation.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2008-1305 require immediate implementation of multiple defensive layers to protect against sql injection attacks. The primary remediation involves implementing proper input validation and parameterized queries throughout the filebase.php script and related components. Organizations should ensure that all user-supplied input, particularly the id parameter, undergoes rigorous sanitization before being incorporated into database queries. Database access controls should be reviewed and strengthened to limit the privileges of database accounts used by phpbb applications, following the principle of least privilege. Additionally, implementing web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems can help identify and block malicious sql injection attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of secure coding practices and input validation, aligning with ATT&CK technique T1190 which covers sql injection attacks. Regular security audits and vulnerability assessments should be conducted to identify similar weaknesses in other components of the phpbb platform or related applications. System administrators should also ensure that all phpbb installations are updated to the latest versions where these vulnerabilities have been patched, as the original vulnerability existed in legacy versions of the filebase mod.