CVE-2012-1603 in NextBBS
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple SQL injection vulnerabilities in ajaxserver.php in NextBBS 0.6 allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the (1) curstr parameter in the findUsers function, (2) id parameter in the isIdAvailable function, or (3) username parameter in the getGreetings function.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/02/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2012-1603 represents a critical SQL injection flaw within the NextBBS 0.6 web application's ajaxserver.php component. This vulnerability affects multiple functions within the application's AJAX server interface, creating a significant attack surface for remote threat actors seeking to compromise the system. The flaw stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization mechanisms that fail to properly escape or filter user-supplied data before incorporating it into SQL query constructions. The affected parameters curstr, id, and username are all processed without proper security measures, allowing malicious actors to inject arbitrary SQL commands that can be executed by the database engine.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-89, which specifically addresses SQL injection weaknesses in software applications. This classification indicates that the application fails to properly neutralize SQL command sequences in user input, enabling attackers to manipulate database queries through crafted input values. The vulnerability operates at the application layer where user input directly influences database operations, making it particularly dangerous as it can lead to complete database compromise. Attackers can leverage these injection points to extract sensitive information, modify database records, or even execute administrative commands on the underlying database system.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft, as it provides attackers with the capability to perform extensive reconnaissance and lateral movement within the compromised environment. When an attacker successfully exploits any of the three vulnerable parameters, they gain the ability to execute arbitrary SQL commands that can access, modify, or delete database contents. This could result in unauthorized access to user credentials, personal information, or other sensitive data stored within the NextBBS system. The remote nature of the attack means that threat actors can exploit these vulnerabilities from anywhere on the internet without requiring physical access to the system, making the attack surface particularly concerning for organizations relying on this software.
From a threat modeling perspective, this vulnerability maps directly to several ATT&CK techniques including T1190 for exploiting vulnerabilities in web applications, T1071.004 for application layer protocol traffic, and T1005 for data from local system. The attack chain typically begins with reconnaissance to identify the vulnerable NextBBS installation, followed by exploitation of the SQL injection points to gain database access. Organizations should implement comprehensive input validation controls, employ parameterized queries, and conduct regular security assessments to identify similar vulnerabilities in their web applications. The remediation approach requires immediate patching of the NextBBS software, implementation of proper input sanitization, and deployment of web application firewalls to detect and prevent such attacks. Additionally, regular security training for developers on secure coding practices and adherence to OWASP Top Ten security guidelines can help prevent similar vulnerabilities in future application development cycles.