CVE-2008-7040 in Simple Forum
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in ahah/sf-profile.php in the Yellow Swordfish Simple Forum module for Wordpress allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the u parameter. NOTE: this issue was disclosed by an unreliable researcher, so the details might be incorrect.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/21/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-7040 represents a critical sql injection flaw within the yellow swordfish simple forum wordpress module. This vulnerability exists in the ahah/sf-profile.php script where user input is improperly handled, creating an avenue for malicious actors to manipulate database queries through the u parameter. The issue stems from insufficient input validation and sanitization mechanisms that fail to properly escape or filter user-supplied data before incorporating it into sql command structures. Such vulnerabilities fall under the common weakness enumeration category of CWE-89 sql injection, which is classified as a high-severity weakness in the CWE hierarchy. The attack vector is particularly concerning as it allows remote code execution without requiring authentication, making it accessible to any attacker with internet connectivity.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker crafts malicious input for the u parameter in the sf-profile.php endpoint. The module fails to implement proper parameterized queries or input sanitization, allowing sql payload injection that can manipulate the underlying database. This weakness enables attackers to execute arbitrary sql commands including data extraction, modification, or deletion operations. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it operates at the database layer, potentially allowing attackers to gain unauthorized access to sensitive user information, forum data, or even escalate privileges within the wordpress environment. According to the attack technique framework, this maps to ATT&CK technique T1071.004 application layer protocol and T1213.002 data from information repositories, as it targets the database communication layer and information storage systems.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond immediate data compromise to encompass potential system-wide damage. Successful exploitation can result in complete database compromise, user credential theft, forum content manipulation, and potential lateral movement within the affected wordpress installation. The vulnerability affects wordpress installations using the yellow swordfish simple forum module, which represents a specific subset of wordpress deployments that may be targeted by attackers. Organizations running vulnerable versions face risks of data breaches, regulatory compliance violations, and reputational damage. The remote nature of the attack means that exploitation can occur from anywhere on the internet without requiring physical access or local network presence, making it particularly attractive to automated attack tools and threat actors.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on immediate patching of the affected wordpress module, implementation of input validation controls, and deployment of web application firewalls. The most effective solution involves updating to the latest version of the yellow swordfish simple forum module where the sql injection vulnerability has been addressed. Organizations should implement proper parameterized queries and input sanitization throughout their applications to prevent similar issues. Additional protective measures include implementing database user privilege restrictions, regular security audits, and monitoring for suspicious sql activity. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of validating third-party wordpress plugins and modules, as this issue was disclosed by an unreliable researcher, indicating potential gaps in security verification processes. Organizations should consider implementing security monitoring solutions that can detect sql injection attempts and maintain up-to-date threat intelligence to identify similar vulnerabilities in their wordpress environments.