CVE-2020-37083 in PHP Address Book
Summary
by MITRE • 02/04/2026
PHP AddressBook 9.0.0.1 contains a time-based blind SQL injection vulnerability that allows remote attackers to manipulate database queries through the 'id' parameter. Attackers can inject crafted SQL statements with time delays to extract information by observing response times in the photo.php endpoint.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/05/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2020-37083 affects PHP AddressBook version 9.0.0.1 and represents a critical time-based blind sql injection flaw that can be exploited by remote attackers without authentication. This vulnerability specifically targets the photo.php endpoint where the 'id' parameter is processed without adequate input validation or sanitization, creating an attack vector that allows malicious actors to manipulate database queries through crafted sql payloads. The vulnerability operates through a time-based blind technique where attackers can infer database information by measuring response delays caused by conditional sql statements that execute sleep or wait functions. This type of injection vulnerability falls under the CWE-89 category of sql injection and aligns with the ATT&CK technique T1213.002 for data from databases, specifically targeting the database access component of the attack chain.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability exploits the lack of proper parameter validation in the photo.php script where user-supplied 'id' values are directly incorporated into sql queries without proper escaping or parameterization. When an attacker submits a malicious 'id' value containing sql injection payloads, the application processes these inputs and executes them against the underlying database. The time-based blind nature of the attack means that attackers can craft sql statements that cause the database to pause execution for a specified duration, typically using functions like sleep() or waitfor delay() depending on the database system. By observing the response times from the application, attackers can determine whether their injected sql statements executed successfully, enabling them to extract database information through a process of trial and error. This methodology is consistent with the ATT&CK framework's T1212 technique for exploitation for credential access, as it allows attackers to indirectly extract sensitive database information.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data exfiltration, as it can enable attackers to perform comprehensive database reconnaissance and potentially escalate privileges within the application environment. Successful exploitation could allow attackers to access sensitive user information stored in the address book database, including personal contact details, potentially leading to identity theft or social engineering attacks. The vulnerability's remote nature means that attackers do not require physical access to the system or prior authentication, making it particularly dangerous as it can be exploited from anywhere on the internet. Organizations using PHP AddressBook 9.0.0.1 are at risk of unauthorized data access, potential service disruption, and compliance violations if sensitive information is compromised. The vulnerability also represents a significant risk to the overall security posture of systems where this application is deployed, as it could serve as a foothold for further attacks or lateral movement within network environments.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2020-37083 should focus on implementing proper input validation and parameterized queries to prevent sql injection attacks. Organizations should immediately upgrade to a patched version of PHP AddressBook if available, as this represents the most effective defense against the vulnerability. Additionally, implementing web application firewalls and input sanitization measures can provide additional layers of protection. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper sql query construction and input handling, which aligns with industry standards such as the OWASP top ten security risks and NIST cybersecurity frameworks. Regular security assessments and code reviews should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other applications, as this type of injection flaw remains one of the most prevalent and dangerous security issues in web applications. The ATT&CK framework's emphasis on defensive techniques including input validation and secure coding practices directly addresses the root causes of this vulnerability and should be implemented as part of comprehensive security measures.