CVE-2017-17623 in Opensource Classified Ads Script
Summary
by MITRE
Opensource Classified Ads Script 3.2 has SQL Injection via the advance_result.php keyword parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/03/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-17623 affects the Opensource Classified Ads Script version 3.2, representing a critical security flaw that exposes the application to unauthorized data access and potential system compromise. This issue manifests through the advance_result.php script where user input is inadequately sanitized, creating an avenue for malicious actors to manipulate database queries through the keyword parameter. The vulnerability stems from improper input validation and query construction practices that fail to adequately filter or escape user-supplied data before incorporating it into database operations.
The technical implementation of this SQL injection flaw occurs when the application processes the keyword parameter from the advance_result.php endpoint without proper sanitization measures. Attackers can exploit this weakness by injecting malicious SQL payloads through the keyword field, potentially allowing them to execute arbitrary database commands. This type of vulnerability falls under CWE-89 which specifically addresses SQL injection vulnerabilities, where insufficient input validation permits attackers to manipulate the intended behavior of database queries. The attack vector typically involves crafting specially formatted input that alters the SQL statement structure, enabling unauthorized access to database contents, data modification, or even complete database compromise.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft, as it provides attackers with substantial control over the classified ads platform's underlying database infrastructure. Successful exploitation could result in unauthorized access to user credentials, personal information, classified advertisements, and potentially sensitive system data. The vulnerability affects the integrity and confidentiality of the entire application ecosystem, as attackers may leverage the SQL injection to escalate privileges, bypass authentication mechanisms, or extract sensitive information from the database. This type of attack aligns with ATT&CK technique T1071.004 which covers application layer protocol manipulation, and T1046 which addresses network service discovery, as attackers may use the compromised system to further explore network resources.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-17623 must prioritize immediate implementation of proper input validation and parameterized query construction. The most effective remediation involves updating the advance_result.php script to utilize prepared statements or parameterized queries that separate SQL command structure from user input data. Additionally, implementing comprehensive input sanitization measures, including character encoding and validation, will prevent malicious payloads from being processed. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls and input filtering mechanisms as additional protective layers. Regular security assessments and code reviews focused on database interaction patterns will help identify similar vulnerabilities across the application codebase. The fix should align with security best practices outlined in OWASP Top Ten and NIST guidelines for secure coding practices, particularly focusing on preventing injection flaws through proper data validation and query parameterization techniques.