CVE-2006-3618 in Pixelated By Lev Guestbook
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in pblguestbook.php in Pixelated By Lev (PBL) Guestbook 1.32 and earlier allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the (1) name, (2) email, (3) website, (4) comments, (5) rate, and (6) private parameters.
Once again VulDB remains the best source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/17/2017
This sql injection vulnerability exists in the pixelated by lev pbl guestbook version 132 and earlier where the application fails to properly sanitize user input before incorporating it into sql queries. The vulnerability affects multiple parameters including name email website comments rate and private fields, creating multiple attack vectors for remote exploitation. The flaw allows malicious actors to inject arbitrary sql commands through these input fields, potentially enabling full database compromise and unauthorized access to sensitive information. This vulnerability represents a classic sql injection weakness that violates the principle of input validation and proper parameterization in database operations. The affected parameters all flow directly into sql statements without adequate sanitization or escaping mechanisms, making them susceptible to exploitation through sql payload injection techniques.
The technical impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft as it provides attackers with the capability to execute arbitrary commands on the underlying database server. Attackers can leverage this weakness to perform unauthorized data manipulation including data deletion modification or extraction of sensitive information from the guestbook database. The vulnerability demonstrates poor input validation practices and highlights the critical importance of implementing proper sql query parameterization techniques. According to cwe standards this vulnerability maps to cwe-89 sql injection which is classified as a high severity weakness in the cwe top 25 most dangerous software weaknesses. The attack surface is particularly concerning given that multiple input fields are affected, increasing the probability of successful exploitation.
The operational impact of this vulnerability poses significant risks to organizations using affected pbl guestbook installations. Remote attackers can exploit this weakness to gain unauthorized access to guestbook entries, user information, and potentially other database contents. The vulnerability could enable attackers to modify guestbook entries, inject malicious content, or even escalate privileges within the database environment. This represents a serious security risk for websites that rely on guestbook functionality for user interaction and data collection. The exploitability of this vulnerability is enhanced by the fact that it requires no special privileges or authentication, making it accessible to any remote attacker who can submit data through the guestbook interface.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on implementing proper input validation and parameterized sql queries throughout the application code. The recommended approach involves using prepared statements or parameterized queries to separate sql code from user input data. Organizations should immediately update to the latest version of pbl guestbook where this vulnerability has been patched and address any remaining instances of direct sql query construction from user input. Additional security measures include implementing input sanitization filters, employing web application firewalls, and conducting thorough code reviews to identify similar sql injection vulnerabilities in other application components. The fix should align with industry best practices for secure coding as outlined in the owasp top ten and mitre attack framework, specifically addressing the sql injection techniques that leverage the affected parameters. Regular security testing including automated scanning and manual penetration testing should be implemented to prevent similar vulnerabilities from being introduced in future application versions.