CVE-2023-33557 in Fuel
Summary
by MITRE • 06/09/2023
Fuel CMS v1.5.2 was discovered to contain a SQL injection vulnerability via the id parameter at /controllers/Blocks.php.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/05/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2023-33557 represents a critical SQL injection flaw within Fuel CMS version 1.5.2 that exposes the application to unauthorized database access and potential system compromise. This vulnerability specifically affects the Blocks.php controller file where user input containing the id parameter is improperly sanitized before being incorporated into SQL queries. The flaw stems from inadequate input validation and parameterized query implementation, creating an exploitable entry point for malicious actors to manipulate database operations through crafted HTTP requests.
This SQL injection vulnerability operates under CWE-89 which classifies it as a classic SQL injection attack vector where untrusted data flows directly into database commands without proper sanitization. The attack surface is particularly concerning as it targets the controllers directory, suggesting that the vulnerability may be accessible through standard content management workflows where users interact with block management features. The id parameter serves as the primary attack vector, allowing attackers to inject malicious SQL code that can execute arbitrary database commands with the privileges of the database user account used by the CMS.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft, as successful exploitation could enable attackers to escalate privileges, extract sensitive information including user credentials, modify or delete database records, and potentially establish persistent access to the underlying system. The vulnerability affects the entire Fuel CMS ecosystem since the controller file is part of the core application architecture, making it a prime target for automated exploitation tools. Attackers could leverage this flaw to gain unauthorized access to administrative panels, user databases, and potentially compromise the entire web application infrastructure.
Security practitioners should implement immediate mitigations including input validation, parameterized queries, and web application firewall rules to block malicious SQL injection patterns targeting the specific controller endpoint. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190 which covers exploiting vulnerabilities in web applications, and T1071.004 which addresses application layer protocol manipulation. Organizations should prioritize updating to the latest stable version of Fuel CMS where this vulnerability has been patched, while also implementing proper database access controls and monitoring for unusual SQL query patterns. Additionally, regular security assessments and input sanitization reviews should be conducted to prevent similar vulnerabilities from emerging in other components of the CMS architecture.