CVE-2017-15988 in Nice PHP FAQ Script
Summary
by MITRE
Nice PHP FAQ Script allows SQL Injection via the index.php nice_theme parameter, a different vulnerability than CVE-2008-6525.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/24/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-15988 affects the Nice PHP FAQ Script, a web-based content management system designed for managing frequently asked questions. This particular flaw represents a significant security weakness that allows remote attackers to execute malicious SQL commands against the underlying database infrastructure. The vulnerability specifically manifests through the index.php script's handling of the nice_theme parameter, which is processed without adequate input validation or sanitization measures. Unlike CVE-2008-6525 which addressed a different SQL injection vector within the same application, this vulnerability demonstrates how legacy systems can contain multiple distinct attack surfaces that require individual remediation efforts.
The technical implementation of this SQL injection vulnerability occurs when the nice_theme parameter is passed directly into SQL query construction without proper escaping or parameterization. An attacker can manipulate this parameter to inject malicious SQL code that gets executed by the database server, potentially allowing for data extraction, modification, or deletion. The vulnerability falls under CWE-89 which specifically addresses SQL injection flaws, and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190 which categorizes SQL injection as a method for compromising database systems. When exploited, this vulnerability can lead to complete database compromise, allowing attackers to access sensitive information stored within the FAQ system's database structure.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-15988 extends beyond simple data theft, as it can enable attackers to escalate their privileges within the system. Successful exploitation may allow unauthorized users to gain administrative access to the FAQ script's database, potentially leading to full system compromise. The vulnerability affects organizations that have not updated their Nice PHP FAQ Script installations, creating a persistent risk for any entity relying on this legacy software. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to extract confidential information including user credentials, FAQ content, and potentially other system-related data that may be stored in the same database. The persistence of such vulnerabilities in older software versions underscores the importance of regular security assessments and patch management processes.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate implementation of input validation and parameterized queries within the index.php script. The recommended approach involves implementing proper input sanitization routines that escape special characters in the nice_theme parameter before it is processed by the database engine. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls that can detect and block SQL injection attempts targeting this specific parameter. Additionally, the software should be updated to a patched version that addresses this vulnerability, as the original application may contain other undiscovered security flaws. Security teams should monitor for exploitation attempts using threat intelligence feeds and implement database activity monitoring to detect anomalous query patterns that may indicate SQL injection attacks targeting this vulnerability. The remediation process should include comprehensive testing to ensure that the fix does not introduce new functionality issues while maintaining the application's core FAQ management capabilities.