CVE-2004-2562 in Web Helpdesk
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in jobedit.asp in Leigh Business Enterprises (LBE) Web Helpdesk before 4.0.0.81 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the id parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/28/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2004-2562 represents a critical SQL injection flaw within the Leigh Business Enterprises Web Helpdesk application, specifically affecting versions prior to 4.0.0.81. This vulnerability resides in the jobedit.asp component which processes user input through the id parameter, creating an exploitable entry point for malicious actors. The flaw demonstrates a classic improper input validation issue that has been documented under CWE-89, which specifically addresses SQL injection vulnerabilities where untrusted data is directly incorporated into SQL command construction without adequate sanitization or parameterization.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when remote attackers provide malicious input through the id parameter in the jobedit.asp script. This allows attackers to manipulate the underlying SQL query structure and inject arbitrary SQL commands that execute within the database context of the Web Helpdesk application. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and sanitization practices, where user-supplied data flows directly into database queries without proper escaping or parameterized query construction. This type of vulnerability enables attackers to bypass authentication mechanisms, extract sensitive data, modify database contents, or even execute administrative commands on the underlying database system.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data compromise, as it provides attackers with potentially full database access and control. Remote attackers can leverage this weakness to perform unauthorized database operations including data retrieval, modification, or deletion of critical helpdesk information such as user credentials, support tickets, and system configurations. The vulnerability affects the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the Web Helpdesk system, potentially leading to complete system compromise. From an attacker perspective, this vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1071.004 for application layer protocol usage and T1190 for exploit public-facing application, representing a common attack vector in the exploitation of web applications.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2004-2562 require immediate implementation of input validation and parameterized queries throughout the application codebase. Organizations should upgrade to version 4.0.0.81 or later of the Web Helpdesk application where the vulnerability has been patched. Additionally, implementing proper input sanitization techniques, using prepared statements or parameterized queries, and conducting regular security code reviews can prevent similar vulnerabilities. Network segmentation and database access controls should be implemented to limit the potential impact of successful exploitation, while regular vulnerability assessments and penetration testing help identify additional weaknesses in the application infrastructure. The remediation approach should follow industry standards such as those outlined in OWASP Top Ten and NIST guidelines for secure coding practices, specifically addressing the prevention of SQL injection vulnerabilities through proper input validation and parameterized query execution.