CVE-2008-1486 in Phorum
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in Phorum before 5.2.6, when mysql_use_ft is disabled, allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the non-fulltext search.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/20/2018
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-1486 represents a critical SQL injection flaw within the Phorum bulletin board system prior to version 5.2.6. This vulnerability specifically manifests when the mysql_use_ft configuration parameter is disabled, creating a path for remote attackers to inject malicious SQL commands through the non-fulltext search functionality. The flaw stems from inadequate input validation and improper sanitization of user-supplied data within the search processing logic, allowing attackers to manipulate database queries through crafted search parameters. This vulnerability falls under the CWE-89 category of SQL Injection, which is classified as a high-risk vulnerability due to its potential for unauthorized data access, modification, or deletion. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this as a Database Enumeration and Credential Access technique, as successful exploitation could lead to complete database compromise.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when users perform searches within the Phorum system while the fulltext search functionality is disabled. Attackers can construct malicious search queries that bypass normal input filtering mechanisms, causing the application to incorporate unauthorized SQL fragments into the database execution context. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it operates within the core search functionality that is frequently accessed by both legitimate users and attackers. When the mysql_use_ft setting is disabled, the system falls back to a less secure search implementation that does not properly escape or validate user input before incorporating it into SQL statements. This creates a direct path for attackers to inject malicious SQL code that executes with the privileges of the database user account under which the Phorum application operates.
The operational impact of CVE-2008-1486 extends beyond simple data theft, as successful exploitation could enable attackers to gain complete control over the affected database. An attacker could extract sensitive information including user credentials, personal data, forum content, and potentially escalate privileges to execute system-level commands if the database server allows such operations. The vulnerability affects organizations using Phorum versions prior to 5.2.6, particularly those with public-facing forums that allow user search functionality. The remote nature of the attack means that exploitation can occur from any location without requiring physical access to the system. Organizations relying on Phorum for community forums, customer support systems, or internal communication platforms face significant risk, as the vulnerability could lead to complete forum compromise and data breaches. The impact is further amplified in environments where the database user account has elevated privileges or where the database contains sensitive organizational information.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2008-1486 primarily focus on upgrading to Phorum version 5.2.6 or later, which includes proper input validation and sanitization measures for search functionality. System administrators should also implement input filtering at multiple levels including application-level validation, database-level escaping, and web application firewalls to detect and block malicious search queries. The configuration setting mysql_use_ft should be evaluated carefully, as disabling it exposes the system to this specific vulnerability. Organizations should implement proper database access controls and privilege management to limit the damage potential even if exploitation occurs. Regular security assessments and input validation testing should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other components of the system. Additionally, monitoring for unusual search patterns and database query activity can help detect exploitation attempts. The remediation process should include comprehensive testing to ensure that the upgrade does not introduce compatibility issues with existing forum functionality while maintaining security improvements.