CVE-2004-1722 in Mail Server
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in calendar.html in Merak Mail Server 5.2.7 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL statements via the schedule parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/06/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2004-1722 represents a critical sql injection flaw within the merak mail server version 5.2.7 specifically affecting the calendar.html component. This vulnerability resides in the handling of user input through the schedule parameter which is processed without adequate sanitization or validation, creating an exploitable pathway for malicious actors to manipulate database queries. The flaw manifests when remote attackers submit crafted sql commands through the schedule parameter, allowing them to execute arbitrary sql statements against the underlying database system. This type of vulnerability falls under the common weakness enumeration category CWE-89, which specifically addresses sql injection vulnerabilities where untrusted data is incorporated into sql queries without proper escaping or parameterization. The attack vector is particularly concerning as it enables remote code execution and database compromise without requiring authentication or elevated privileges.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data manipulation to encompass complete database system compromise and potential lateral movement within network infrastructure. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to extract sensitive information including user credentials, email content, and system configurations from the database. The merak mail server environment becomes vulnerable to unauthorized data access, modification, or deletion, potentially leading to service disruption, data breaches, and compliance violations. Given that this vulnerability affects a mail server component, the implications include potential exposure of confidential communications and user account information. The vulnerability also aligns with attack techniques documented in the attack tree framework where adversaries can progress from initial access through privilege escalation and data exfiltration.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2004-1722 should prioritize immediate patching of the merak mail server to version 5.2.8 or later, which contains the necessary fixes for the sql injection vulnerability. Organizations should implement input validation and sanitization measures at the application level, ensuring all user-supplied data is properly escaped or parameterized before database interaction. The principle of least privilege should be enforced by configuring database accounts with minimal required permissions, preventing attackers from executing destructive operations even if they successfully exploit the vulnerability. Network segmentation and firewall rules can limit access to the affected mail server components, reducing the attack surface. Additionally, regular security assessments and code reviews should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other applications and systems, implementing proper sql injection prevention techniques such as prepared statements and stored procedures. The vulnerability also underscores the importance of maintaining up-to-date security patches and following secure coding practices to prevent similar issues in future development cycles.