CVE-2017-15081 in PHP Melody
Summary
by MITRE
In PHPSUGAR PHP Melody CMS 2.6.1, SQL Injection exists via the playlist parameter to playlists.php.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/10/2025
The vulnerability CVE-2017-15081 represents a critical SQL injection flaw in PHPSUGAR PHP Melody CMS version 2.6.1 that specifically targets the playlist parameter within the playlists.php script. This vulnerability falls under the CWE-89 category, which classifies SQL injection as a weakness that occurs when an application fails to properly sanitize user input before incorporating it into SQL queries. The flaw enables malicious actors to manipulate database queries through crafted input, potentially leading to unauthorized data access, modification, or deletion.
The technical execution of this vulnerability occurs when the playlist parameter in playlists.php fails to implement proper input validation or sanitization measures. Attackers can construct malicious SQL payloads that get directly incorporated into database queries without adequate escaping or parameterization. This allows for the exploitation of the application's database layer, potentially enabling attackers to extract sensitive information such as user credentials, personal data, or administrative access details. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it operates within a content management system that likely handles user-generated content and media playlists, expanding the attack surface.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-15081 extends beyond simple data theft to encompass full database compromise and potential system infiltration. Successful exploitation could result in unauthorized administrative access, data breaches, or even complete system takeover depending on the database permissions. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1071.004 which covers application layer protocol abuse, and T1046 which involves network service scanning. Organizations running this version of PHP Melody CMS face significant risk as the vulnerability can be exploited through simple web-based attacks without requiring advanced technical skills or privileged access.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-15081 should prioritize immediate patching of the affected PHP Melody CMS version to 2.6.2 or later, which contains the necessary security fixes. Organizations should implement proper input validation and parameterized queries throughout the application codebase to prevent similar vulnerabilities from occurring. Additionally, web application firewalls should be configured to monitor and block suspicious SQL injection patterns, while database access should be restricted to minimum required privileges. Regular security audits and penetration testing should be conducted to identify and remediate other potential injection vulnerabilities, particularly focusing on the CWE-77 and CWE-89 categories that encompass various injection attack vectors. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of maintaining up-to-date software versions and implementing robust input sanitization practices as fundamental security controls.