CVE-2005-4509 in pTools
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in index.asp in pTools allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the docID parameter. NOTE: the provenance of this information is unknown; the details are obtained solely from third party information.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/01/2017
This vulnerability represents a classic sql injection flaw in the pTools web application's index.asp component where the docID parameter fails to properly validate or sanitize user input before incorporating it into sql database queries. The weakness stems from insufficient input filtering mechanisms that allow malicious actors to inject sql payload strings directly through the web interface. The vulnerability exists at the application layer where user-supplied data transitions from the http request into the database query execution context without adequate security controls.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability enables remote code execution through sql command injection attacks by manipulating the docID parameter value to append malicious sql statements. Attackers can leverage this flaw to bypass authentication mechanisms, extract sensitive data from the underlying database, modify or delete records, and potentially gain elevated privileges within the database environment. This type of vulnerability falls under the common weakness enumeration category CWE-89 which specifically addresses sql injection vulnerabilities that occur when untrusted data is incorporated into sql queries without proper sanitization or parameterization.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft as it provides attackers with persistent access to the underlying database infrastructure. Remote exploitation allows threat actors to perform reconnaissance activities, map database structures, and identify additional vulnerabilities within the system. The attack surface increases significantly when considering that this vulnerability enables arbitrary command execution against the database server, potentially leading to complete system compromise. According to the attack technique framework, this represents a direct path to the data layer through the application interface as outlined in the attack pattern catalog.
Mitigation strategies should focus on implementing proper input validation and parameterized queries to prevent sql injection attacks. The recommended approach includes using prepared statements with parameter binding, implementing strict input sanitization routines, and employing web application firewalls to detect and block malicious sql payloads. Additionally, regular security assessments and code reviews should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other application components. The principle of least privilege should be enforced by limiting database user permissions and implementing proper access controls. Organizations should also consider implementing database activity monitoring solutions to detect anomalous sql query patterns that may indicate exploitation attempts.