CVE-2006-3884 in LinksCaffe
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple SQL injection vulnerabilities in links.php in Gonafish LinksCaffe 3.0 allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the (1) offset and (2) limit parameters, (3) newdays parameter in a new action, and the (4) link_id parameter in a deadlink action. NOTE: this issue can also be used for path disclosure by a forced SQL error, or to modify PHP files using OUTFILE.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/01/2018
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2006-3884 affects Gonafish LinksCaffe 3.0, a web-based link management system that suffers from multiple SQL injection flaws in its links.php script. This represents a critical security weakness that allows remote attackers to manipulate the underlying database through carefully crafted input parameters. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and improper parameter handling within the application's database interaction logic, creating an attack surface where malicious actors can inject arbitrary SQL commands directly into the database layer.
The specific attack vectors involve four distinct parameters that are vulnerable to SQL injection attacks: the offset parameter, the limit parameter, the newdays parameter used in the new action, and the link_id parameter utilized in the deadlink action. These parameters are processed without adequate sanitization or escaping mechanisms, allowing attackers to append malicious SQL code that gets executed within the database context. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it affects core operational parameters that are frequently used in the application's normal functionality, making exploitation relatively straightforward and accessible to attackers with basic knowledge of SQL injection techniques.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data extraction, as it provides attackers with the capability to modify PHP files using the database's OUTFILE functionality. This means that successful exploitation could lead to complete system compromise through file manipulation, potentially allowing attackers to upload malicious code or modify existing application files. Additionally, the vulnerability can be leveraged for path disclosure attacks by triggering forced SQL errors that reveal sensitive server path information, which could aid in further exploitation attempts. This dual nature of the vulnerability makes it particularly dangerous as it combines data manipulation capabilities with reconnaissance opportunities.
From a cybersecurity perspective, this vulnerability aligns with CWE-89, which specifically addresses SQL injection flaws in software applications. The attack pattern described corresponds to the techniques outlined in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under the T1190 category, which covers exploitation of remote services through SQL injection. Organizations affected by this vulnerability face significant risk of data breaches, system compromise, and potential regulatory compliance violations, especially in environments where sensitive information is stored within the affected database. The long lifespan of this vulnerability, spanning from 2006 to present, demonstrates the persistent nature of SQL injection flaws in legacy applications that fail to receive proper security updates or patches.
Effective mitigation strategies include implementing proper input validation and parameterized queries to prevent SQL injection attacks, applying the latest security patches from the vendor, and conducting regular security assessments of web applications. Organizations should also implement database access controls and monitoring systems to detect unusual database activity patterns. The vulnerability highlights the critical importance of maintaining up-to-date security practices and the necessity of proper input sanitization techniques to prevent such widespread exploitation opportunities in web applications.