CVE-2008-6443 in phpKF
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in forum_duzen.php in phpKF allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the fno parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/15/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-6443 represents a critical SQL injection flaw within the phpKF forum software, specifically in the forum_duzen.php component. This vulnerability resides in the handling of user-supplied input through the fno parameter, which is processed without adequate sanitization or validation mechanisms. The flaw allows remote attackers to inject malicious SQL code directly into the application's database queries, potentially enabling full database compromise and unauthorized access to sensitive information. The vulnerability impacts the integrity and confidentiality of the forum's data storage system, as attackers can manipulate database operations through crafted input sequences.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when the application fails to properly escape or parameterize user input before incorporating it into SQL query structures. The fno parameter serves as the attack vector where malicious users can submit specially crafted SQL commands that bypass normal input validation checks. This type of vulnerability falls under CWE-89 which specifically addresses SQL injection weaknesses in software applications. The flaw demonstrates poor input validation practices and inadequate database query construction methodologies that are commonly exploited in web application attacks. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to extract, modify, or delete database records, potentially gaining administrative access to the forum's backend systems.
The operational impact of CVE-2008-6443 extends beyond simple data theft to encompass complete system compromise and potential lateral movement within network environments. Remote attackers can utilize this vulnerability to execute arbitrary commands on the database server, potentially leading to privilege escalation and persistent access. The vulnerability affects the availability, integrity, and confidentiality of the forum's data, as unauthorized users can manipulate database contents, create backdoors, or establish persistent access points. This weakness also provides attackers with opportunities to perform reconnaissance activities and gather additional information about the underlying system architecture, making it a significant concern for organizations relying on vulnerable forum software. The attack surface is particularly dangerous given that forum software often contains user-generated content and personal information that may be valuable to threat actors.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate implementation of proper input validation and parameterized query construction techniques. Organizations should implement proper input sanitization measures that filter or escape special characters before processing user input, ensuring that the fno parameter cannot be used to inject malicious SQL code. The recommended approach involves utilizing prepared statements or parameterized queries that separate SQL command structure from data values, effectively preventing injection attacks. Security measures should also include regular security audits of web applications, implementation of web application firewalls, and proper access controls to limit database permissions. Additionally, applying the latest security patches and updates to phpKF software, along with implementing proper monitoring and logging mechanisms, will help detect and prevent exploitation attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of following secure coding practices and adheres to ATT&CK technique T1190 which covers exploitation of remote services through injection attacks, highlighting the need for comprehensive security controls around database interactions in web applications.