CVE-2005-4745 in FreeRADIUS
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in the rlm_sqlcounter module in FreeRADIUS 1.0.3 and 1.0.4 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via unknown attack vectors.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/25/2019
The CVE-2005-4745 vulnerability represents a critical SQL injection flaw within the rlm_sqlcounter module of FreeRADIUS versions 1.0.3 and 1.0.4. This vulnerability resides in the authentication and accounting subsystem of the FreeRADIUS server, which is widely deployed for network access control and wireless authentication services. The rlm_sqlcounter module specifically handles counter-based authentication mechanisms, typically used for tracking user session time, data usage, or other accounting metrics. The flaw allows remote attackers to inject malicious SQL commands through unspecified attack vectors, potentially compromising the entire authentication infrastructure. This vulnerability directly impacts the integrity and confidentiality of network access control systems that rely on FreeRADIUS for user authentication and authorization.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation within the rlm_sqlcounter module's database query construction process. When processing user authentication requests or accounting data, the module fails to properly sanitize or escape user-supplied input before incorporating it into SQL queries. This lack of proper input sanitization creates an environment where malicious actors can manipulate database queries through crafted input parameters, potentially executing arbitrary SQL commands on the underlying database server. The vulnerability operates at the application layer and can be exploited without requiring authentication, making it particularly dangerous for systems with exposed FreeRADIUS services. The attack vectors remain unspecified in the original CVE description, suggesting the flaw may manifest through multiple entry points including user authentication parameters, session identifiers, or accounting data fields.
The operational impact of CVE-2005-4745 extends far beyond simple data compromise, as it can lead to complete system takeover and unauthorized network access. Successful exploitation could enable attackers to extract sensitive user credentials, modify authentication databases, or even gain shell access to the underlying database server. Network administrators responsible for wireless access points, VPN services, or enterprise authentication systems would face severe consequences, as FreeRADIUS serves as a critical component in these environments. The vulnerability particularly affects organizations using RADIUS-based authentication for wireless networks, where compromised credentials could lead to unauthorized network access and potential lateral movement within the network infrastructure. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-89, which specifically addresses SQL injection flaws, and represents a prime example of how authentication systems can become attack vectors for broader network compromises.
Organizations affected by this vulnerability should immediately implement multiple layers of mitigation strategies to protect their network infrastructure. The primary recommendation involves upgrading to FreeRADIUS versions 1.0.5 or later, where the SQL injection vulnerability has been addressed through proper input validation and parameterized query construction. Network segmentation and firewall rules should be implemented to restrict direct access to FreeRADIUS services from untrusted networks, reducing the attack surface. Additionally, implementing database query logging and monitoring can help detect suspicious SQL activity that might indicate exploitation attempts. Security teams should also conduct comprehensive vulnerability assessments of their RADIUS infrastructure, including reviewing all modules and extensions that may be vulnerable to similar injection attacks. The remediation process should include thorough testing of updated configurations to ensure that the upgrade does not disrupt existing authentication services while effectively closing the security gap. This vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of maintaining up-to-date authentication infrastructure and the potential consequences of unpatched vulnerabilities in core network services.