CVE-2008-3200 in Avlc Forum
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in vlc_forum.php in Avlc Forum as of 20080715 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the id parameter in an affich_message action.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/01/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-3200 represents a critical sql injection flaw within the avlc forum software version dated 20080715. This vulnerability specifically targets the vlc_forum.php script and manifests when processing the id parameter during an affich_message action. The flaw allows remote attackers to inject malicious sql commands directly into the application's database layer, potentially compromising the entire backend infrastructure. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization mechanisms within the forum's message display functionality, where user-supplied parameters are directly incorporated into sql query constructions without proper escaping or parameterization.
This sql injection vulnerability operates under the common weakness enumeration CWE-89 which categorizes improper neutralization of special elements used in sql commands as a fundamental security flaw. The attack vector specifically exploits the lack of proper parameter binding or input filtering when handling the id parameter in the affich_message action. Attackers can manipulate the id parameter to inject malicious sql payloads that bypass authentication mechanisms, extract sensitive data, modify database records, or even execute administrative commands on the underlying database system. The vulnerability's remote exploitation capability means that attackers do not require local system access or credentials to exploit the flaw, making it particularly dangerous for publicly accessible web applications.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft, as successful exploitation could lead to complete system compromise and unauthorized access to sensitive user information. Database administrators and system operators face significant risks including unauthorized data modification, potential data loss, and the possibility of using the compromised system as a launch point for further attacks within the network infrastructure. The vulnerability affects the forum's integrity and availability, as attackers could potentially disrupt normal operations by corrupting database entries or executing denial-of-service payloads. Additionally, the exposure of user credentials, private messages, and forum metadata could result in privacy violations and reputational damage for the organization operating the vulnerable forum.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2008-3200 should focus on immediate patching of the affected avlc forum software to the latest secure version that addresses the sql injection vulnerability. Organizations should implement proper input validation and parameterized queries throughout their application code to prevent similar vulnerabilities from occurring in other components. The principle of least privilege should be enforced by ensuring database accounts used by the forum application have minimal required permissions and access rights. Network segmentation and intrusion detection systems can help monitor for suspicious sql injection attempts, while regular security audits and code reviews should be conducted to identify and remediate similar vulnerabilities. Implementation of web application firewalls and sql injection detection mechanisms can provide additional layers of protection. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of maintaining up-to-date security patches and following secure coding practices as outlined in the software security development lifecycle standards and attack techniques documented in the mitre ATT&CK framework under the database access and command execution categories.