CVE-2014-9240 in MyBB
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in member.php in MyBB (aka MyBulletinBoard) 1.8.x before 1.8.2 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the question_id parameter in a do_register action.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/26/2025
The CVE-2014-9240 vulnerability represents a critical SQL injection flaw in MyBB version 1.8.x prior to 1.8.2, specifically affecting the member.php script during registration processes. This vulnerability resides within the handling of the question_id parameter when processing do_register actions, creating a pathway for remote attackers to manipulate database queries through crafted input. The flaw demonstrates a classic lack of proper input validation and parameter sanitization, allowing malicious actors to inject arbitrary SQL commands directly into the database layer. The vulnerability impacts the core authentication and registration functionality of the bulletin board system, potentially compromising user data and system integrity.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from insufficient input sanitization within the member.php script where the question_id parameter is processed without proper escaping or validation mechanisms. Attackers can exploit this by crafting malicious input that gets directly incorporated into SQL queries executed by the application's database layer. This allows for unauthorized data extraction, modification, or deletion operations, potentially leading to complete database compromise. The vulnerability specifically targets the registration workflow where users are prompted with security questions, making it particularly dangerous as it can be exploited during legitimate user interactions. The flaw aligns with CWE-89 which categorizes improper neutralization of special elements used in SQL commands as a fundamental weakness in application security.
The operational impact of CVE-2014-9240 extends beyond simple data theft to encompass potential system compromise and unauthorized access to user accounts. Remote attackers can leverage this vulnerability to extract sensitive user information including usernames, passwords, and personal details stored in the database. The attack vector requires no authentication and can be executed through standard web browser interactions, making it particularly dangerous for widespread exploitation. The vulnerability affects all installations running MyBB versions 1.8.0 through 1.8.1, creating a significant security gap that could be exploited by threat actors targeting forum communities. This weakness directly violates the principle of least privilege and proper input validation as outlined in security best practices.
Organizations affected by this vulnerability should immediately implement mitigations including upgrading to MyBB version 1.8.2 or later, which contains the necessary patches to address the SQL injection vulnerability. Additionally, implementing proper input validation and parameterized queries in the affected code sections would provide defense-in-depth measures. Network monitoring should be enhanced to detect suspicious database access patterns and unusual query execution. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of timely patch management and proper code review processes to prevent such security flaws from persisting in production environments. Security teams should also consider implementing web application firewalls and database activity monitoring solutions to detect and prevent exploitation attempts. This vulnerability serves as a reminder of the essential need for secure coding practices and regular security assessments to identify and remediate similar weaknesses in application code.