CVE-2003-0377 in iisPROTECT
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in the web-based administration interface for iisPROTECT 2.2-r4, and possibly earlier versions, allows remote attackers to insert arbitrary SQL and execute code via certain variables, as demonstrated using the GroupName variable in SiteAdmin.ASP.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/24/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2003-0377 represents a critical sql injection flaw within the web-based administration interface of iisPROTECT version 2.2-r4 and potentially earlier releases. This security weakness resides in the server-side application logic that processes user input through the SiteAdmin.ASP page, specifically targeting the GroupName variable parameter. The vulnerability enables remote attackers to manipulate database queries by injecting malicious sql code through carefully crafted input fields, fundamentally undermining the application's data integrity and security controls. The flaw demonstrates a classic lack of proper input validation and parameter sanitization in web applications, creating an avenue for unauthorized database access and potential system compromise.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through the manipulation of the GroupName variable within the SiteAdmin.ASP interface, where user-supplied input is directly incorporated into sql queries without adequate sanitization or parameterization. This type of vulnerability falls under the common weakness enumeration CWE-89 which specifically addresses sql injection flaws, and aligns with the attack pattern described in the attack tree framework under CWE-1107. The vulnerability exploits the fundamental principle that untrusted input should never be directly concatenated into sql statements, instead requiring proper parameterized queries or input validation mechanisms to prevent malicious code injection. When an attacker submits specially crafted data through the GroupName field, the application processes this input directly within the sql execution context, allowing arbitrary sql commands to be executed with the privileges of the web application's database user account.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft, as it provides attackers with the capability to execute arbitrary code on the affected system. Successful exploitation can lead to complete system compromise, data exfiltration, privilege escalation, and potential lateral movement within the network infrastructure. The vulnerability affects the administrative interface specifically, meaning that attackers who gain access to this component can manipulate user groups, potentially gaining elevated privileges or disrupting system operations. This type of attack vector is particularly dangerous in web application environments where administrative interfaces often have elevated permissions and access to sensitive system resources. The vulnerability's remote exploitability means that attackers do not require physical access or local network presence to leverage this weakness, making it a significant threat to organizations relying on iisPROTECT for their web security infrastructure.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2003-0377 must focus on implementing proper input validation and parameterized queries throughout the application codebase. The most effective remediation involves converting all dynamic sql queries to use parameterized statements or stored procedures that separate sql code from data input. Organizations should implement comprehensive input sanitization mechanisms that filter or escape special characters that could be used in sql injection attempts. Additionally, the principle of least privilege should be enforced by ensuring that database accounts used by the web application have minimal required permissions and that access controls are properly configured. Network segmentation and firewall rules should be implemented to restrict access to administrative interfaces, limiting the attack surface. Regular security assessments and code reviews should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other application components, while application-level firewalls and intrusion detection systems can provide additional monitoring capabilities for suspicious sql injection attempts. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of keeping security software updated and following secure coding practices as outlined in industry standards such as the owasp top ten and nist cybersecurity framework guidelines.