CVE-2010-5083 in Web Links Module
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in the Web_Links module for PHP-Nuke 8.0 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the url parameter in an Add action to modules.php.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/03/2025
The CVE-2010-5083 vulnerability represents a critical SQL injection flaw within the Web_Links module of PHP-Nuke version 8.0, specifically targeting the url parameter during Add actions in modules.php. This vulnerability falls under the CWE-89 category of SQL Injection, where improper input validation allows malicious actors to manipulate database queries through crafted user inputs. The flaw exists in the web application's parameter handling mechanism, where the url parameter value is directly incorporated into SQL statements without adequate sanitization or parameterization. Attackers can exploit this weakness by submitting malicious SQL payloads through the url parameter, potentially gaining unauthorized access to sensitive database information, executing arbitrary commands, or even taking complete control of the underlying database system. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it operates within a widely used content management framework, making it an attractive target for automated exploitation tools.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when a user submits a URL value containing malicious SQL code through the Add action interface. The PHP-Nuke application fails to properly escape or validate the url parameter before incorporating it into database queries, creating a direct pathway for SQL injection attacks. This flaw demonstrates poor input validation practices and violates fundamental security principles outlined in the OWASP Top Ten, specifically the injection vulnerabilities category. The attack vector is remote and requires no authentication, making it particularly dangerous as it can be exploited by anyone with access to the vulnerable web application. The vulnerability's impact extends beyond simple data theft, as successful exploitation can lead to complete system compromise, data manipulation, and potential persistence mechanisms within the compromised environment.
The operational impact of CVE-2010-5083 is severe and multifaceted, affecting organizations running vulnerable PHP-Nuke installations. Database administrators face the risk of unauthorized access to sensitive information including user credentials, personal data, and system configurations. The vulnerability can be leveraged to escalate privileges, modify or delete database records, and potentially gain shell access to the underlying server. From an ATT&CK framework perspective, this vulnerability maps to T1190 (Exploit Public-Facing Application) and T1071.004 (Application Layer Protocol: DNS) as attackers can use the compromised system to launch further attacks. Organizations may experience service disruption, data loss, and compliance violations, particularly in regulated environments where data protection is mandatory. The vulnerability also creates opportunities for attackers to establish backdoors or maintain persistent access to the compromised systems.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2010-5083 require immediate action to address the root cause through proper input validation and parameterization. Organizations should implement prepared statements or parameterized queries to ensure that user inputs are properly escaped and treated as data rather than executable code. The recommended approach involves upgrading to PHP-Nuke version 8.1 or later, where this vulnerability has been patched. Additionally, input sanitization measures including whitelisting of valid characters, length restrictions, and comprehensive validation of URL formats should be implemented. Network-level protections such as web application firewalls can provide additional defense-in-depth measures, though they should not replace proper code-level fixes. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be conducted to identify similar issues in other components of the application stack. System administrators should also implement proper monitoring and logging to detect potential exploitation attempts, and establish incident response procedures to address successful attacks. The vulnerability underscores the importance of secure coding practices and the necessity of following established security frameworks like the OWASP Secure Coding Practices to prevent similar issues in future development cycles.