CVE-2003-1042 in Bugzilla
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in collectstats.pl for Bugzilla 2.16.3 and earlier allows remote authenticated users with editproducts privileges to execute arbitrary SQL via the product name.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/16/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2003-1042 represents a critical sql injection flaw within the collectstats.pl script of Bugzilla version 2.16.3 and earlier. This vulnerability specifically targets the product name parameter handling within the statistics collection functionality, creating a pathway for malicious actors to manipulate database queries through crafted input. The flaw exists in the authentication and authorization model of Bugzilla, where users with editproducts privileges can leverage this vulnerability to gain unauthorized access to database operations. The vulnerability classification aligns with CWE-89 which specifically addresses sql injection weaknesses, and it maps to attack techniques within the ATT&CK framework under TA0006 Privilege Escalation and TA0002 Execution. The security implications extend beyond simple data theft as this vulnerability enables complete database manipulation capabilities.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when authenticated users with editproducts permissions submit specially crafted product names to the collectstats.pl script. The script fails to properly sanitize or escape user input before incorporating it into sql queries, allowing attackers to inject malicious sql commands that bypass normal security controls. This injection occurs at the database layer where the application constructs queries using string concatenation rather than parameterized queries, which is a fundamental security practice that prevents sql injection attacks. The vulnerability specifically affects the product name field because it is directly incorporated into the sql statement without proper input validation or sanitization mechanisms. The flaw demonstrates poor input handling practices that are commonly exploited in web applications, particularly those using older frameworks or codebases that predate modern security standards.
The operational impact of CVE-2003-1042 is severe and multifaceted, affecting both data integrity and system availability within Bugzilla environments. Attackers can execute arbitrary sql commands including data extraction, modification, or deletion operations, potentially leading to complete compromise of the bug tracking database. The vulnerability allows for privilege escalation within the application context, as authenticated users with editproducts rights can leverage this flaw to perform actions beyond their intended permissions. Organizations using affected Bugzilla versions face significant risks including unauthorized access to sensitive project information, potential data corruption, and the possibility of using this vulnerability as a stepping stone for further attacks within the network infrastructure. The vulnerability also impacts audit and compliance requirements as it creates potential data exposure scenarios that violate information security policies.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2003-1042 require immediate action to address the underlying sql injection vulnerability. The primary recommendation involves upgrading to Bugzilla versions 2.16.4 or later where the vulnerability has been patched through proper input validation and sanitization. Organizations should implement input validation measures including parameterized queries or prepared statements to prevent sql injection attacks at the code level. Access control measures should be reinforced to limit editproducts privileges to only essential personnel, reducing the attack surface for this particular vulnerability. Security monitoring should include detection of unusual database query patterns that may indicate sql injection attempts. The remediation process should also involve code review practices to ensure that all user inputs are properly escaped or validated before database operations. Additionally, organizations should consider implementing web application firewalls and database activity monitoring solutions to detect and prevent exploitation attempts. These measures align with security best practices outlined in industry standards including iso 27001 and nist cybersecurity framework, which emphasize the importance of input validation and access control in preventing sql injection attacks.