CVE-2008-5037 in Image Gallery
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in view.php in ElkaGroup Image Gallery 1.0 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the cid parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/09/2025
The CVE-2008-5037 vulnerability represents a critical SQL injection flaw in the ElkaGroup Image Gallery version 1.0, specifically within the view.php script. This vulnerability exposes the application to remote code execution attacks through improper input validation of the cid parameter. The flaw allows malicious actors to inject arbitrary SQL commands into the database query execution process, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The vulnerability stems from the application's failure to sanitize user-supplied input before incorporating it into SQL database queries, creating an exploitable entry point for attackers to manipulate the underlying database infrastructure.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability resides in the view.php file where the cid parameter is directly used in SQL query construction without adequate sanitization or parameterization. When an attacker submits a malicious cid value containing SQL payload characters such as single quotes, semicolons, or union select statements, the application processes these inputs directly into database queries. This lack of input validation creates a path for attackers to bypass authentication mechanisms, extract sensitive data, modify database contents, or even escalate privileges within the affected system. The vulnerability operates at the application layer and requires no special privileges to exploit, making it particularly dangerous for web applications that handle sensitive user or system data.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft, encompassing potential complete system compromise and unauthorized access to backend database resources. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to perform unauthorized data manipulation, including deleting or modifying records, extracting confidential information such as user credentials, personal details, or system configurations. The vulnerability also enables attackers to potentially escalate their privileges within the database environment, leading to persistent access and the ability to conduct further reconnaissance or lateral movement within the network infrastructure. Additionally, the compromise of the image gallery database can result in service disruption, data corruption, and potential regulatory compliance violations for organizations storing sensitive information.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2008-5037 should focus on immediate input validation and parameterized query implementation to prevent SQL injection attacks. Organizations must implement proper input sanitization techniques, including the use of prepared statements or parameterized queries that separate SQL code from data inputs. The application should employ strict input validation routines that filter or reject suspicious characters and patterns commonly associated with SQL injection attempts. Security patches and updates should be applied immediately to address the vulnerability, while network monitoring systems should be configured to detect and alert on suspicious database query patterns. Additionally, implementing database access controls, regular security assessments, and following secure coding practices aligned with CWE-89 standards for SQL injection prevention will significantly reduce the risk of exploitation. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1071.004 for application layer attacks and demonstrates the critical importance of proper input validation in preventing database compromise scenarios.