CVE-2005-4406 in Mercury CMS
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in index.cfm in Mercury CMS 4.0 and earlier allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the page parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/04/2017
The vulnerability described in CVE-2005-4406 represents a critical sql injection flaw within the mercury cms version 4.0 and earlier systems. This weakness exists in the index.cfm script where user input is not properly sanitized before being incorporated into sql query constructions. The specific parameter affected is the page parameter which serves as an entry point for malicious sql command injection attempts. Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by crafting specially formatted input strings that manipulate the underlying sql query execution flow.
This vulnerability falls under the common weakness enumeration category CWE-89 which specifically addresses sql injection flaws in software applications. The flaw enables remote attackers to execute arbitrary sql commands against the database backend without authentication or authorization. The attack vector is particularly dangerous because it allows full database access and manipulation capabilities, potentially leading to data theft, data corruption, or complete system compromise. The vulnerability exists due to inadequate input validation and parameter sanitization mechanisms within the cms application.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft to encompass complete system compromise and unauthorized access to sensitive information. Remote attackers can leverage this weakness to extract confidential data, modify database records, delete critical information, or even escalate privileges within the system. The consequences include potential disclosure of user credentials, personal information, and business data that could result in significant financial and reputational damage. Organizations running affected mercury cms versions face substantial risk of unauthorized access and data breaches.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate implementation of proper input validation and parameterized queries. System administrators should upgrade to mercury cms versions that address this specific sql injection flaw and implement web application firewalls to detect and block malicious sql injection attempts. The recommended approach includes applying security patches promptly, implementing proper input sanitization routines, and conducting thorough security testing of all web applications. Additionally, organizations should establish secure coding practices that prevent sql injection vulnerabilities through proper parameterization and input validation techniques. The remediation process should also include network segmentation and access control measures to limit potential damage from successful exploitation attempts.