CVE-2002-1537

admin_ug_auth.php in phpBB 2.0.0 allows local users to gain administrator privileges by directly calling admin_ug_auth.php with modifed form fields such as "u"

published September 1, 2004

CVSS
—
EPSS
2%
Percentile
83.9
In the wild
Unconfirmed
What it is

⚠️ A crafty local user can gain admin privileges just by tweaking a few form fields in phpBB 2.0.0! Imagine a sneaky individual at a restaurant who figures out how to bypass the front desk by faking their reservation under a different name — they can now access the VIP lounge without anyone noticing! If exploited, this vulnerability allows unauthorized users to seize control of the admin panel, enabling them to manipulate settings, access sensitive data, or even kick legitimate users out like an uninvited guest taking over the party.

Put simply

Imagine a sneaky individual at a restaurant who figures out how to bypass the front desk by faking their reservation under a different name — they can now access the VIP lounge without anyone noticing! This vulnerability exists in admin_ug_auth.php where local users can directly call the script with modified form fields, such as 'u', bypassing standard authentication checks.

What to do

If exploited, this vulnerability allows unauthorized users to seize control of the admin panel, enabling them to manipulate settings, access sensitive data, or even kick legitimate users out like an uninvited guest taking over the party. To mitigate this, ensure that phpBB is updated to a version beyond 2.0.0, and implement proper input validation for any form fields. Regularly audit user permissions and keep an eye on your logs for any suspicious activity. You've got this! Stay vigilant, and with these steps, you'll keep your phpBB site secure like a pro! 🛡️

The record
Technical detail
CVSS
Not scored
CVSS v4.0
Not supplied
EPSS
0.02409 · 83.9th percentile
Published
2004-09-01T04:00Z
EPSS history
Timeline
  • 01 SEP 04:00Z
    admin_ug_auth.php in phpBB 2.0.0 allows local users to gain administrator privileges by directly calling admin_ug_auth.php with modifed form fields such as "u"
    cvelistv5