1. Introduction
Woltlab Burning Board modcp.php Multiple Parameter SQL Injection is a flaw in the web server’s PHP scripting that allows attackers to inject malicious SQL code. This can lead to unauthorised access to sensitive data, modification of existing information, and potential attacks on the database itself. Systems running vulnerable versions of Woltlab Burning Board or Burning Board Lite are affected. A successful exploit could compromise confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the system.
2. Technical Explanation
- Exploit mechanism: An attacker with moderator access can send a crafted request to modcp.php containing malicious SQL code within the ‘x’ or ‘y’ parameter, which is then executed against the database. For example, an attacker could inject code to retrieve password hashes from the user table.
- Scope: Burning Board and Burning Board Lite are affected by this vulnerability. Specific versions were not specified in available documentation.
3. Detection and Assessment
Confirming a system is vulnerable involves checking the installed version of Burning Board and looking for evidence of exploitation attempts. A quick check can be done via the web interface, while thorough assessment requires reviewing logs.
- Quick checks: Access the Burning Board administration panel and check the ‘About’ section to determine the installed version.
- Scanning: Nessus plugin ID 14617 may detect this vulnerability. This is an example only.
- Logs and evidence: Examine web server logs for suspicious SQL queries or errors related to the modcp.php script. Look for patterns indicating attempts to access sensitive data like password hashes.
# No specific command available without knowing Burning Board's logging configuration. Review web server access logs.4. Solution / Remediation Steps
Currently, a definitive solution is unknown. The following steps outline preparation for potential patching or mitigation when a fix becomes available.
4.1 Preparation
- Services to stop: Stop the web server service (e.g., Apache, Nginx) during patching or configuration updates. A roll back plan involves restoring from the pre-change backup if issues occur.
- Dependencies: Ensure you have access to the Burning Board administration interface and database credentials. Change windows may be required depending on downtime tolerance.
4.2 Implementation
- Step 1: Monitor the SecurityFocus archive (https://www.securityfocus.com/archive/1/408660) and the Woltlab website for official patch releases or workarounds.
- Step 2: Once a patch is available, download it from a trusted source.
- Step 3: Apply the patch according to the vendor’s instructions. This may involve uploading files via FTP or using the Burning Board administration interface.
4.3 Config or Code Example
No specific config or code example is available as a solution is currently unknown.
Before
After
4.4 Security Practices Relevant to This Vulnerability
- Practice 1: Implement least privilege for all user accounts, including moderators. Limit access to only the necessary functions and data.
- Practice 2: Enforce strict input validation on all user-supplied data, especially parameters used in database queries. Use prepared statements or parameterized queries whenever possible.
4.5 Automation (Optional)
No automation script is available as a solution is currently unknown.
5. Verification / Validation
Confirming the fix involves checking that the vulnerability is no longer exploitable and that key system functions remain operational. A post-fix check can be done by attempting a simple SQL injection test.
- Post-fix check: Attempt to inject a basic SQL query into the ‘x’ or ‘y’ parameter of modcp.php via the web interface. The application should not return any errors or unexpected results.
- Re-test: Re-run the earlier detection methods (web interface version check, log analysis) to confirm that no evidence of exploitation attempts is present.
- Monitoring: Monitor web server logs for any suspicious SQL queries or errors related to modcp.php.
# No specific command available without knowing Burning Board's logging configuration. Review web server access logs for failed injection attempts.6. Preventive Measures and Monitoring
Updating security baselines and implementing checks in CI/CD pipelines can help prevent similar vulnerabilities. A regular patch or config review cycle is also essential.
- Baselines: Update your web server security baseline to include requirements for input validation and secure coding practices.
- Asset and patch process: Implement a regular patch review cycle, ensuring that all security updates are applied promptly.
7. Risks, Side Effects, and Roll Back
Applying patches can sometimes introduce compatibility issues or service disruptions. Always have a roll back plan in place.
8. References and Resources
The following resources provide information about this vulnerability.
- Vendor advisory or bulletin: https://www.securityfocus.com/archive/1/408660
- NVD or CVE entry: CVE-2005-2673
- Product or platform documentation relevant to the fix: No specific documentation available at this time.