CVE-2005-3762 in Exponent
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in the navigation module (navigationmodule) in Exponent CMS 0.96.3 and later versions allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the parent parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/11/2019
The CVE-2005-3762 vulnerability represents a critical sql injection flaw within the navigation module of Exponent CMS versions 0.96.3 and later. This vulnerability specifically targets the parent parameter within the navigationmodule component, creating a pathway for remote attackers to execute arbitrary sql commands on the underlying database system. The flaw exists due to insufficient input validation and sanitization of user-supplied data, allowing malicious actors to manipulate sql queries through crafted input parameters. The vulnerability impacts the integrity and confidentiality of the entire cms platform, as successful exploitation can lead to complete database compromise and unauthorized access to sensitive information. This type of vulnerability falls under the common weakness enumeration category of CWE-89 sql injection, which is classified as a high-risk vulnerability in the software security landscape. The attack vector is particularly concerning as it requires no authentication and can be executed remotely, making it accessible to any attacker with knowledge of the target system's configuration.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when the navigationmodule processes the parent parameter without proper sanitization of input values. When a malicious user submits specially crafted sql payload through the parent parameter, the application fails to properly escape or validate the input before incorporating it into sql queries. This creates an environment where attacker-controlled sql code can be executed within the context of the database user account, potentially allowing for data extraction, modification, or deletion. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it affects core navigation functionality, which is frequently accessed by both legitimate users and automated systems, increasing the attack surface and potential impact. The flaw demonstrates poor secure coding practices where user input is directly concatenated into sql statements without proper parameterization or input filtering mechanisms. This vulnerability is categorized under the ATT&CK technique T1071.004 application layer protocol, as it exploits the sql protocol through web application interfaces, and T1213.002 data from information repositories, as it targets database access through application vulnerabilities.
The operational impact of CVE-2005-3762 extends beyond simple data theft, encompassing complete system compromise and potential lateral movement within affected networks. Successful exploitation could allow attackers to escalate privileges, create backdoor accounts, or modify critical application functionality through database manipulation. The vulnerability affects organizations using Exponent CMS versions 0.96.3 and later, potentially exposing sensitive user data, configuration information, and business-critical data stored within the database. Organizations may experience service disruption, data breaches, and regulatory compliance violations as a result of this vulnerability. The long-term implications include compromised trust in the affected systems and potential legal ramifications from data exposure. Attackers could leverage this vulnerability to establish persistent access to systems, making it particularly dangerous for organizations that rely on the cms for critical business operations. The vulnerability's exploitation timeline is relatively short once discovered, as the attack requires only basic sql injection techniques and knowledge of the application's navigation module structure. This makes it an attractive target for automated exploitation tools and increases the risk of widespread compromise across organizations using vulnerable versions of the software.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2005-3762 require immediate patching of affected Exponent CMS installations to versions that properly sanitize input parameters and implement secure sql query construction. Organizations should implement proper input validation and parameterized queries to prevent sql injection attacks, ensuring that all user-supplied data is properly escaped or parameterized before database interaction. Network segmentation and web application firewalls can provide additional defense-in-depth measures to detect and block malicious sql injection attempts. Regular security assessments and code reviews should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities within the application codebase, particularly focusing on sql query construction and input handling practices. System administrators should monitor database logs for suspicious activity and implement proper access controls to limit database user privileges. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of maintaining up-to-date software versions and implementing secure coding practices throughout the development lifecycle. Organizations should also consider implementing automated vulnerability scanning tools to identify and remediate similar sql injection vulnerabilities across their infrastructure, as this type of flaw remains prevalent in legacy web applications. Regular security training for development teams is essential to prevent recurrence of such vulnerabilities through improved secure coding practices and adherence to established security standards.