CVE-2004-2561 in Web+Center
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple SQL injection vulnerabilities in Internet Software Sciences Web+Center 4.0.1 allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via (1) the ISS_TECH_CENTER_LOGIN cookie in search.asp and (2) one or more cookies in DoCustomerOptions.asp.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/24/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2004-2561 represents a critical SQL injection flaw within the Internet Software Sciences Web+Center 4.0.1 web application platform. This vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization mechanisms that fail to properly filter user-supplied data before incorporating it into database queries. The flaw specifically affects two distinct entry points within the application's authentication and customer management functionalities, creating multiple attack vectors for malicious actors seeking to exploit the system. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-89 which specifically addresses SQL injection weaknesses where untrusted data is directly concatenated into SQL command strings without proper escaping or parameterization.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through manipulation of HTTP cookies that are transmitted between the client and server during web application interactions. Attackers can craft specially formatted cookie values that, when processed by the vulnerable application, result in unintended SQL command execution within the backend database. The first attack vector targets the ISS_TECH_CENTER_LOGIN cookie within the search.asp page, while the second vector affects one or more cookies in the DoCustomerOptions.asp page. Both vectors demonstrate the application's failure to properly validate and sanitize cookie data before using it in database operations, creating a pathway for attackers to bypass authentication mechanisms and gain unauthorized access to sensitive data.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft to encompass complete system compromise and potential data destruction. Remote attackers can execute arbitrary SQL commands that may allow them to extract sensitive customer information, modify database records, or even escalate privileges within the database system. The vulnerability's remote nature means that attackers do not require physical access to the system or network, making it particularly dangerous as it can be exploited from anywhere on the internet. This type of vulnerability directly violates the principle of least privilege and can lead to unauthorized access to customer databases, financial records, and other sensitive information typically stored within web applications.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability must address both the immediate technical flaws and implement comprehensive security controls to prevent similar issues in the future. The primary fix involves implementing proper parameterized queries or prepared statements throughout the application codebase to ensure that user input cannot be interpreted as SQL commands. Additionally, input validation and sanitization measures should be strengthened at all points where cookies or other user-supplied data are processed. Organizations should also implement proper cookie security practices including secure flags, HttpOnly attributes, and regular cookie rotation. This vulnerability demonstrates the importance of following secure coding practices and adheres to ATT&CK technique T1190 which covers exploitation of vulnerabilities in web applications, emphasizing the need for continuous security testing and code review processes to identify and remediate such critical flaws before they can be exploited by malicious actors.