CVE-2018-25411 in MGB OpenSource Guestbook
Summary
by MITRE • 05/30/2026
MGB OpenSource Guestbook 0.7.0.2 contains an SQL injection vulnerability that allows unauthenticated attackers to execute arbitrary SQL queries by injecting malicious code through the 'id' parameter. Attackers can send GET requests to email.php with crafted SQL payloads in the 'id' parameter to extract sensitive database information including table and column names.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/31/2026
The MGB OpenSource Guestbook version 0.7.0.2 presents a critical SQL injection vulnerability that fundamentally compromises the application's database security posture. This vulnerability exists within the email.php script where the 'id' parameter is directly incorporated into SQL query construction without proper input sanitization or parameterization. The flaw allows unauthenticated attackers to manipulate database queries through HTTP GET requests, making it particularly dangerous as no prior authentication is required to exploit the weakness. The vulnerability falls under CWE-89 which specifically addresses SQL injection flaws where untrusted data is embedded into SQL commands without adequate validation or escaping mechanisms.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability enables attackers to perform extensive database enumeration and data extraction operations. When malicious SQL payloads are injected through the 'id' parameter, the application processes these inputs directly within the database query context, allowing attackers to extract sensitive information including table structures, column names, and potentially sensitive data stored within the database. This type of attack leverages the fundamental principle of SQL injection where attacker-controlled input alters the intended logic of database operations, enabling unauthorized access to database contents. The vulnerability demonstrates poor input validation practices and lacks proper database query parameterization which are core defensive measures against SQL injection attacks.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft to encompass complete database compromise and potential system escalation. Attackers can utilize this vulnerability to extract user credentials, personal information, and other sensitive data stored within the guestbook application's database. The unauthenticated nature of the exploit means that any attacker with network access to the application can potentially compromise the database without requiring valid credentials or privileged access. This vulnerability represents a significant risk to organizations relying on the application as it could lead to data breaches, regulatory compliance violations, and potential system compromise. The attack vector through GET requests makes exploitation particularly straightforward and can be easily automated, increasing the potential for widespread impact.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on immediate remediation through proper input validation and parameterized queries. The application code must implement strict input sanitization for the 'id' parameter and utilize prepared statements or parameterized queries to prevent SQL injection attacks. Security measures should include input length validation, character set restrictions, and proper error handling to prevent information leakage. Organizations should also implement web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems to monitor for suspicious SQL injection patterns. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190 which describes exploitation of vulnerabilities in web applications, and T1071.004 which covers application layer protocol manipulation. Regular security assessments and code reviews should be implemented to prevent similar vulnerabilities in future development cycles, with adherence to secure coding practices and OWASP Top Ten guidelines for web application security.