CVE-2010-0608 in NovaBoard
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in index.php in NovaBoard 1.1.2 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the forums[] parameter in a search action.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/30/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2010-0608 represents a critical SQL injection flaw within the NovaBoard 1.1.2 web application, specifically affecting the index.php file during search operations. This vulnerability resides in the handling of user input through the forums[] parameter, which is processed without adequate sanitization or validation mechanisms. The flaw enables remote attackers to inject malicious SQL code directly into the database query execution flow, potentially compromising the entire database infrastructure. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it allows attackers to manipulate the underlying database through legitimate search functionality, making it difficult to detect and mitigate.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability follows standard SQL injection attack patterns where the forums[] parameter is manipulated to inject malicious SQL payloads. When the application processes search requests containing crafted input in this parameter, the unvalidated data is directly concatenated into SQL queries without proper escaping or parameterization. This creates an environment where attackers can execute arbitrary database commands, potentially gaining unauthorized access to sensitive information, modifying database content, or even escalating privileges within the database system. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-89, which categorizes SQL injection as a fundamental weakness in data validation and input handling. Attackers can leverage this flaw to perform various malicious activities including data exfiltration, unauthorized data modification, and potentially complete database compromise.
The operational impact of CVE-2010-0608 extends beyond simple data theft, as it can lead to complete system compromise and unauthorized access to sensitive user information. Organizations running NovaBoard 1.1.2 are vulnerable to attacks that can result in unauthorized data access, data corruption, and potential system downtime. The vulnerability's remote nature means attackers do not require physical access to the system, making it particularly dangerous for web applications. This flaw can be exploited through standard web browser interactions, making it accessible to a wide range of threat actors. The attack surface is further expanded when considering that NovaBoard is a bulletin board system where user-generated content is common, potentially allowing attackers to leverage the vulnerability through user interactions.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2010-0608 must focus on implementing proper input validation and parameterized queries to prevent SQL injection attacks. Organizations should immediately upgrade to a patched version of NovaBoard or implement proper input sanitization techniques that escape special characters in user-supplied data. The recommended approach involves using prepared statements with parameterized queries to ensure that user input cannot alter the structure of SQL commands. Additionally, implementing proper access controls and database permissions can limit the damage from successful exploitation attempts. Security measures should include input validation at multiple layers, including application-level filtering and database-level protections. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of following secure coding practices and adheres to ATT&CK technique T1071.004 for application layer attacks, where adversaries exploit vulnerabilities in web applications to gain unauthorized access. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems to monitor for suspicious SQL injection patterns and prevent exploitation attempts.