CVE-2013-0735 in Mingle-forum
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple SQL injection vulnerabilities in wpf.class.php in the Mingle Forum plugin before 1.0.34 for WordPress allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the id parameter in a viewtopic (1) remove_post, (2) sticky, or (3) closed action or (4) thread parameter in a postreply action to index.php.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/09/2026
The vulnerability CVE-2013-0735 represents a critical SQL injection flaw within the Mingle Forum plugin for WordPress, specifically affecting versions prior to 1.0.34. This vulnerability resides in the wpf.class.php file and demonstrates a classic lack of input validation that enables attackers to manipulate database queries through crafted malicious input. The flaw manifests when users interact with forum functionality, particularly during topic viewing, post removal, sticky thread operations, closed thread actions, and reply posting activities. The vulnerability operates at the application layer, exploiting improper parameter handling in the plugin's core functionality.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from insufficient sanitization of user-supplied input parameters, specifically the id parameter in viewtopic actions and the thread parameter in postreply operations. Attackers can leverage these parameters to inject malicious SQL code that bypasses normal authentication and authorization mechanisms. When the WordPress application processes these parameters without proper validation, the injected SQL commands execute with the privileges of the web application, potentially allowing full database access. This vulnerability directly maps to CWE-89, which categorizes SQL injection flaws as a critical weakness in application security that enables unauthorized database access and data manipulation.
The operational impact of CVE-2013-0735 extends beyond simple data theft, as successful exploitation can lead to complete system compromise. Attackers can execute arbitrary SQL commands to extract sensitive user data, modify forum content, escalate privileges, or even gain shell access to the underlying server. The vulnerability affects not only the forum's integrity but also potentially compromises the entire WordPress installation, especially when the application runs with elevated database privileges. This type of attack aligns with ATT&CK technique T1071.004, which describes application layer protocol manipulation, and T1046, covering network service discovery, as attackers may use the compromised forum to map network resources and plan further attacks.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate patching of the Mingle Forum plugin to version 1.0.34 or later, which addresses the input validation issues. Additionally, implementing proper parameterized queries and input sanitization measures can prevent similar vulnerabilities in the future. Network segmentation and web application firewalls should be configured to monitor for suspicious SQL injection patterns, while regular security audits of WordPress plugins can identify other vulnerable components. Organizations should also implement the principle of least privilege for database accounts, ensuring that web applications use accounts with minimal necessary permissions to reduce the potential impact of successful exploitation. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of keeping content management systems and their plugins updated, as unpatched vulnerabilities remain prime targets for automated exploitation tools and manual attackers seeking to compromise web applications.