CVE-2005-1017 in MaxWebPortal
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in the Update_Events function in events_functions.asp in MaxWebPortal 1.33 and earlier allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the EVENT_ID parameter, as demonstrated using events.asp.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/31/2019
The vulnerability described in CVE-2005-1017 represents a critical SQL injection flaw within the MaxWebPortal content management system version 1.33 and earlier. This vulnerability specifically targets the Update_Events function located in the events_functions.asp file, which serves as a core component for managing portal events. The flaw manifests when the EVENT_ID parameter is processed without proper input validation or sanitization, creating an exploitable pathway for malicious actors to inject arbitrary SQL commands into the underlying database system. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it operates within a web application context where user input directly influences database queries, making it a prime target for attackers seeking unauthorized access to sensitive data or system compromise.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper input handling within the Update_Events function, which fails to employ parameterized queries or adequate input sanitization mechanisms. When an attacker submits a malicious EVENT_ID parameter containing SQL payload characters, the application directly incorporates this input into SQL query construction without proper escaping or validation. This design flaw aligns with CWE-89, which classifies SQL injection as a weakness where untrusted data is directly included in SQL commands. The vulnerability demonstrates a classic lack of input validation and output encoding that violates fundamental security principles for database interaction. The attack vector is particularly effective because it leverages a common web application function that processes user-provided data, making it easily exploitable through standard web application penetration testing methodologies.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft, as successful exploitation can result in complete database compromise, unauthorized administrative access, and potential lateral movement within affected networks. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to extract sensitive information including user credentials, portal configuration data, and potentially other database contents that may contain additional system vulnerabilities. The consequences are amplified by the fact that MaxWebPortal was designed for web-based content management, meaning that the database often contains critical business information and user data. This vulnerability creates an entry point that could enable attackers to escalate privileges, modify portal functionality, or even gain persistence within the target environment. The impact is further compounded by the widespread use of such portal systems in enterprise environments where database integrity and user privacy are paramount.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2005-1017 must address both immediate remediation and long-term architectural improvements to prevent similar vulnerabilities. The primary recommendation involves implementing proper input validation and parameterized queries throughout the application codebase, particularly in the events_functions.asp file where the vulnerability exists. Organizations should immediately upgrade to MaxWebPortal versions that address this vulnerability, as the original version 1.33 and earlier contain no built-in protections against SQL injection attacks. Security measures should include input sanitization routines that filter or escape special characters commonly used in SQL injection attempts, along with comprehensive database access controls that limit the privileges of application database accounts. Additionally, implementing web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems can provide additional layers of protection against exploitation attempts. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of following secure coding practices and conducting regular security assessments to identify and remediate similar weaknesses in legacy applications, as outlined in the ATT&CK framework's methodology for identifying and mitigating common web application vulnerabilities.