CVE-2004-2668 in InterChange
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in Interchange before 4.8.9 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via unknown vectors.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/20/2017
The CVE-2004-2668 vulnerability represents a critical sql injection flaw in the interchange e-commerce platform prior to version 4.8.9. This vulnerability exposes the system to remote code execution through maliciously crafted sql commands that bypass normal input validation mechanisms. The flaw stems from insufficient sanitization of user-supplied data before incorporating it into sql query constructs, creating an attack surface where malicious actors can manipulate database operations through web interfaces. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it allows attackers to execute arbitrary sql commands without requiring authentication or privileged access to the system. The attack vectors remain unspecified in the original description, suggesting that the vulnerability could potentially be exploited through multiple input points within the interchange application. This type of vulnerability directly violates the principle of least privilege and demonstrates inadequate input validation practices that are fundamental to secure application development. The impact extends beyond simple data theft, as attackers can potentially modify, delete, or extract sensitive information from databases that the application manages. Such vulnerabilities are classified under cwe-89 sql injection within the common weakness enumeration framework, which specifically addresses the improper handling of sql queries that can lead to unauthorized database access.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability involves crafting malicious input that gets directly incorporated into sql statements without proper escaping or parameterization. Attackers can leverage this flaw to bypass authentication mechanisms, extract confidential data from backend databases, modify existing records, or even gain deeper system access through database-level commands. The vulnerability's classification as a remote code execution flaw means that attackers do not need physical access to the system or network to exploit it, making it particularly dangerous for publicly accessible web applications. The interchange platform's architecture likely processes user inputs through various web forms, api endpoints, or parameterized urls that fail to properly validate or sanitize incoming data before database operations. This weakness creates a pathway for attackers to manipulate the sql execution environment and potentially escalate privileges through database administrative functions. The vulnerability's persistence across multiple versions indicates a fundamental flaw in the input handling mechanisms that was not adequately addressed in the development lifecycle.
The operational impact of CVE-2004-2668 extends far beyond immediate data compromise, affecting organizational security posture, regulatory compliance, and business continuity. Organizations running vulnerable interchange installations face potential exposure of customer data, financial records, and business-critical information stored in associated databases. The vulnerability creates opportunities for attackers to establish persistent access through database-level backdoors or to conduct more sophisticated attacks such as data exfiltration, lateral movement, or system disruption. Security teams must consider the implications of this vulnerability within the broader attack surface, particularly when evaluating the application's adherence to security best practices and defensive measures. The vulnerability also impacts compliance with various regulatory frameworks such as pci dss, which requires robust protection of cardholder data and mandates proper input validation to prevent sql injection attacks. Organizations may face significant financial penalties and reputational damage if this vulnerability is exploited successfully, particularly in industries where data protection is paramount. The attack pattern aligns with tactics described in the mitre att&ck framework under initial access and execution phases, where attackers leverage application vulnerabilities to gain unauthorized access to systems and data resources.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2004-2668 require immediate patching of affected interchange installations to version 4.8.9 or later, which should contain proper input validation and sanitization mechanisms. Organizations should implement comprehensive input validation at multiple layers of their application architecture, including web application firewalls, api gateways, and database access controls. The implementation of prepared statements or parameterized queries should be enforced throughout the application codebase to prevent direct sql injection. Network segmentation and access controls should be strengthened to limit the impact of potential exploitation, particularly through database server hardening and privilege management. Regular security assessments and penetration testing should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other applications and systems within the organization. Security monitoring should include detection of unusual database access patterns and sql command execution that could indicate exploitation attempts. Organizations should also establish incident response procedures specifically designed to handle sql injection attacks and ensure that all developers receive training on secure coding practices and vulnerability prevention. The remediation process should include thorough testing of patched applications to ensure that security measures do not introduce new functionality issues while maintaining the integrity of database operations and user experience.