CVE-2004-2173 in Productcart
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in advSearch_h.asp in EarlyImpact ProductCart allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the priceUntil parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/06/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2004-2173 represents a critical sql injection flaw within the advSearch_h.asp component of EarlyImpact ProductCart software. This vulnerability resides in the handling of user input through the priceUntil parameter, which is processed without adequate sanitization or validation mechanisms. The flaw allows remote attackers to manipulate the underlying sql query structure by injecting malicious sql code through this specific input vector, potentially gaining unauthorized access to the database system. The vulnerability is classified under the common weakness enumeration CWE-89 which specifically addresses sql injection vulnerabilities where untrusted data is directly incorporated into sql commands without proper escaping or parameterization.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker submits malicious input through the priceUntil parameter in the advSearch_h.asp script. The application fails to properly sanitize or escape the input before incorporating it into sql queries, enabling attackers to craft sql commands that bypass normal authentication mechanisms and execute arbitrary sql statements. This can result in unauthorized data access, data modification, or complete database compromise. The vulnerability specifically targets the priceUntil parameter, suggesting that the application's search functionality for product pricing is particularly susceptible to manipulation. The attack surface is expanded by the fact that this is a remote vulnerability, meaning attackers do not require physical access to the system to exploit it.
Operationally, the impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft to encompass potential system compromise and business disruption. Attackers could leverage this vulnerability to extract sensitive customer information, modify product pricing data, or even gain administrative access to the database. The consequences include unauthorized data modification, potential service denial, and exposure of sensitive business information. The vulnerability demonstrates poor input validation practices and highlights the critical importance of implementing proper sql injection defenses. From an attack perspective, this vulnerability aligns with techniques described in the attack tactic and technique framework under the category of command execution and data manipulation.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on implementing proper input validation and sql parameterization techniques. The most effective approach involves using prepared statements or parameterized queries to ensure that user input is treated as data rather than executable code. Additionally, implementing proper input sanitization, output encoding, and least privilege access controls can significantly reduce the attack surface. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems to monitor for suspicious sql injection attempts. The remediation process requires updating the affected software to a patched version from EarlyImpact or implementing custom input validation logic that properly escapes or validates all user-supplied data before processing. Security practices should emphasize the principle of least privilege and regular security assessments to identify and remediate similar vulnerabilities across the entire application stack.