CVE-2006-3565 in HiveMail
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in search.results.php in HiveMail 1.3 and earlier allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the fields[] parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/31/2018
The CVE-2006-3565 vulnerability represents a critical sql injection flaw in HiveMail version 1.3 and earlier, specifically within the search.results.php component. This vulnerability arises from inadequate input validation and sanitization of user-supplied data, creating an exploitable condition that enables remote attackers to manipulate database queries through the fields[] parameter. The flaw exists in the application's handling of search parameters, where user input is directly incorporated into sql statements without proper escaping or parameterization mechanisms.
This vulnerability falls under the common weakness enumeration CWE-89 which categorizes sql injection as a persistent security flaw occurring when untrusted data is embedded into sql commands without adequate sanitization. The attack vector is particularly dangerous as it allows remote code execution capabilities, enabling threat actors to perform unauthorized database operations including data retrieval, modification, or deletion. The fields[] parameter serves as the primary injection point where malicious sql payloads can be injected, potentially compromising the entire database infrastructure underlying the HiveMail application.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft, as it provides attackers with the capability to escalate privileges within the database environment and potentially gain access to sensitive user information, system credentials, or confidential communications stored within the hive mail system. The vulnerability's remote nature means that exploitation can occur from any location without requiring physical access to the system, making it particularly attractive to malicious actors. Attackers can leverage this flaw to extract user accounts, modify system configurations, or even establish persistent backdoors within the compromised environment. The severity is amplified by the fact that HiveMail was likely used for business communications, potentially exposing corporate data or personal information of users.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2006-3565 should prioritize immediate patching of the affected HiveMail versions to address the sql injection vulnerability. Organizations should implement proper input validation and sanitization techniques, including parameterized queries and prepared statements, to prevent user input from being interpreted as sql commands. The application should employ proper escape sequences and validate all incoming parameters against expected data types and formats. Additionally, implementing web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems can help monitor for suspicious sql injection patterns. Security best practices recommend maintaining up-to-date software versions, conducting regular security assessments, and establishing proper database access controls to minimize the potential impact of such vulnerabilities. The remediation process should also include comprehensive code reviews to identify similar injection points throughout the application codebase and adherence to secure coding standards as outlined in the owasp top ten and other industry security frameworks.