CVE-2003-0025 in IMP
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple SQL injection vulnerabilities in IMP 2.2.8 and earlier allow remote attackers to perform unauthorized database activities and possibly gain privileges via certain database functions such as check_prefs() in db.pgsql, as demonstrated using mailbox.php3.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/17/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2003-0025 represents a critical SQL injection flaw affecting IMP 2.2.8 and earlier versions, specifically targeting the PostgreSQL database component. This vulnerability resides within the check_prefs() function located in the db.pgsql file, making it particularly dangerous as it directly impacts the database interaction layer of the email client. The flaw allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands against the underlying database system, potentially enabling full database compromise and unauthorized access to sensitive user information. The vulnerability was demonstrated through exploitation of mailbox.php3, which serves as a primary interface for email management within the IMP system.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization within the database interaction functions. When IMP processes user-supplied data through the check_prefs() function, it fails to properly escape or filter special characters that could be interpreted as SQL syntax by the database engine. This lack of proper parameterization creates an exploitable condition where malicious input can alter the intended database query structure, allowing attackers to inject their own SQL commands. The vulnerability specifically affects PostgreSQL database implementations, making it particularly relevant for systems utilizing this particular database management system. According to CWE classification, this represents a CWE-89: Improper Neutralization of Special Elements used in an SQL Command, which is a fundamental weakness in database security design.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft, as it provides attackers with the potential to escalate privileges and perform unauthorized database activities. Successful exploitation could enable attackers to extract sensitive user credentials, modify database records, create new user accounts, or even execute administrative commands on the database server. The remote nature of the attack means that no local system access is required, making the vulnerability particularly dangerous for web-based email systems. This vulnerability directly maps to ATT&CK technique T1078.004: Valid Accounts, as successful exploitation could lead to privilege escalation and unauthorized access to database resources. The attack vector is particularly concerning for email systems as it targets core database functions that are frequently accessed during normal user operations.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2003-0025 should prioritize immediate patching of affected IMP versions to 2.2.9 or later, where the SQL injection vulnerabilities have been addressed through proper input validation and parameterized query implementation. Organizations should implement comprehensive database access controls and audit all database activities to detect potential exploitation attempts. The implementation of proper input sanitization techniques, including the use of prepared statements and parameterized queries, should be enforced throughout the application codebase. Additionally, network segmentation and firewall rules should be configured to limit direct database access from external networks, while regular security assessments should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other database-dependent applications. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of following secure coding practices and maintaining up-to-date security patches in web applications.