CVE-2008-1315 in ZClassifieds
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in the ZClassifieds module for PHP-Nuke allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the cat parameter to modules.php.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/13/2025
The CVE-2008-1315 vulnerability represents a critical sql injection flaw within the ZClassifieds module for PHP-Nuke systems, exposing organizations to significant remote code execution risks. This vulnerability specifically targets the cat parameter in the modules.php file, creating an exploitable pathway for malicious actors to manipulate database queries and potentially gain unauthorized access to sensitive information. The flaw resides in the improper handling of user input within the module's database interaction logic, where user-supplied parameters are directly incorporated into sql statements without adequate sanitization or parameterization.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the module's failure to properly validate and escape input data before processing. When a user submits a value through the cat parameter, the application does not adequately filter or sanitize this input before incorporating it into sql commands executed against the backend database. This primitive input handling approach creates a direct injection vector where attackers can craft malicious sql payloads that bypass normal security controls and execute arbitrary commands on the database server. The vulnerability is classified as a classic sql injection attack pattern that aligns with CWE-89, which specifically addresses improper neutralization of special elements used in sql commands.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft, as successful exploitation can enable attackers to perform complete database compromise operations including data manipulation, unauthorized user creation, privilege escalation, and potentially full system compromise. Remote attackers can leverage this vulnerability to extract sensitive information such as user credentials, personal data, and system configurations without requiring local access or authentication. The attack surface is particularly concerning for organizations using PHP-Nuke platforms with the ZClassifieds module, as the vulnerability affects the core database interaction mechanisms and can be exploited through standard web browser interfaces.
Security professionals should consider this vulnerability in the context of the MITRE ATT&CK framework, particularly under the T1071.004 technique for application layer protocol tunneling and T1213.002 for data from information repositories. The vulnerability enables attackers to move laterally through database systems and potentially escalate privileges within the broader application ecosystem. Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including input validation, parameterized queries, and web application firewalls to prevent exploitation. The recommended remediation strategy involves updating to patched versions of the ZClassifieds module, implementing proper input sanitization routines, and conducting comprehensive security testing to identify similar vulnerabilities within the PHP-Nuke platform. Additionally, network segmentation and database access controls should be reviewed to limit potential damage from successful exploitation attempts.