CVE-2006-6831 in A-faq
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in faqDsp.asp in aFAQ 1.0 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the catcode parameter.
If you want to get best quality of vulnerability data, you may have to visit VulDB.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/14/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2006-6831 represents a critical SQL injection flaw within the aFAQ 1.0 web application's faqDsp.asp component. This vulnerability specifically targets the catcode parameter, which serves as an entry point for malicious input that can be exploited to manipulate the underlying database queries. The flaw stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization practices within the application's codebase, allowing attackers to inject malicious SQL commands through the web interface. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-89, which specifically addresses SQL injection weaknesses in software applications where user-supplied data is directly incorporated into SQL statements without proper escaping or parameterization.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker submits a malicious catcode parameter value that alters the intended database query execution flow. The application fails to properly sanitize or escape the input data before incorporating it into SQL commands, creating an environment where arbitrary SQL statements can be executed with the privileges of the database user account. This allows attackers to perform unauthorized database operations including data retrieval, modification, deletion, or even privilege escalation. The impact extends beyond simple data theft as attackers can potentially gain full control over the database backend, leading to complete system compromise. The vulnerability demonstrates poor secure coding practices that violate fundamental principles of input validation and database query construction as outlined in industry security standards.
Operationally, this vulnerability poses significant risks to organizations deploying aFAQ 1.0 systems, as it enables remote code execution capabilities without requiring authentication. Attackers can leverage this flaw to extract sensitive information from the database, modify existing records, or inject malicious content that could affect the entire application functionality. The remote nature of the attack means that exploitation can occur from anywhere on the internet, making it particularly dangerous for publicly accessible web applications. The vulnerability also aligns with ATT&CK technique T1071.004, which covers application layer protocol usage for command and control communications, as the SQL injection can be used to establish persistent access and exfiltrate data. Organizations may face regulatory compliance violations and potential legal consequences if sensitive data is compromised through such vulnerabilities.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2006-6831 should prioritize immediate patching of the affected application to address the input validation shortcomings. Implementing proper parameterized queries or prepared statements would eliminate the vulnerability by ensuring that user input cannot alter the structure of SQL commands. Additionally, input validation should be strengthened to reject suspicious characters and patterns commonly associated with SQL injection attacks. Network segmentation and firewall rules can help limit access to the vulnerable application, while comprehensive logging and monitoring should be implemented to detect potential exploitation attempts. The organization should also conduct thorough security assessments to identify similar vulnerabilities in other components and establish secure coding practices for future development. Regular security updates and vulnerability management processes are essential to prevent similar issues from arising in other legacy systems.