CVE-2006-0840 in Mantis
Summary
by MITRE
manage_user_page.php in Mantis 1.00rc4 and earlier does not properly handle a sort parameter containing a (quote) character, which allows remote attackers to trigger a SQL error that may be repeatedly reported to a user who makes subsequent web accesses with the MANTIS_MANAGE_COOKIE cookie. NOTE: this issue might be the same as vector 2 in CVE-2005-4519.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/19/2018
The vulnerability described in CVE-2006-0840 affects Mantis 1.00rc4 and earlier versions, specifically within the manage_user_page.php component of the bug tracking system. This flaw represents a classic SQL injection vulnerability that occurs when the application fails to properly sanitize user input parameters. The issue manifests when a sort parameter containing a quote character is processed by the application, creating a condition where malicious input can interfere with the SQL query execution flow. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it leverages cookie-based persistence to maintain the attack vector across multiple user sessions, making it a persistent threat that can affect users who have previously interacted with the vulnerable system.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through improper input validation and sanitization of the sort parameter in the manage_user_page.php script. When a malicious user crafts a sort parameter containing quote characters, the application fails to properly escape or filter these special characters before incorporating them into SQL queries. This creates an opportunity for attackers to inject malicious SQL code that can manipulate the database operations. The vulnerability is classified as a SQL injection issue under CWE-89, which specifically addresses improper neutralization of special elements used in SQL commands. The use of the MANTIS_MANAGE_COOKIE cookie as a persistence mechanism allows attackers to maintain their malicious payload across multiple web accesses, effectively creating a stealthy attack vector that can be triggered repeatedly by unsuspecting users.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data manipulation or theft, as it can lead to significant system compromise and unauthorized access to sensitive information. When the SQL error occurs and is repeatedly reported to users who make subsequent web accesses with the MANTIS_MANAGE_COOKIE, it creates a situation where legitimate users become unwitting participants in the attack chain. This behavior aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.008, which describes the use of SQL injection to execute malicious commands. The vulnerability can potentially allow attackers to extract sensitive user data, modify user permissions, or escalate privileges within the Mantis system. The repeated reporting mechanism makes this vulnerability particularly dangerous as it can affect multiple users over time, creating a broader attack surface and increasing the likelihood of successful exploitation.
The remediation strategy for this vulnerability requires immediate implementation of proper input validation and parameter sanitization techniques. System administrators should upgrade to Mantis versions beyond 1.00rc4 where this vulnerability has been addressed through proper input handling and SQL query escaping mechanisms. The fix should implement proper parameter binding or escaping for all user-supplied input parameters, particularly those used in SQL query construction. Organizations should also implement web application firewall rules to detect and block malicious quote characters in sort parameters, and conduct thorough code reviews to ensure similar vulnerabilities do not exist in other components of the application. Additionally, regular security assessments and penetration testing should be performed to identify potential injection points and ensure that all user inputs are properly validated before processing. The vulnerability serves as a critical reminder of the importance of input validation and proper SQL query construction in preventing database-related security incidents.