CVE-2007-0202 in @lex Guestbook
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in index.php in @lex Guestbook 4.0.2 and earlier, when magic_quotes_gpc is disabled, allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the lang parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/16/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-0202 represents a critical SQL injection flaw within the @lex Guestbook 4.0.2 software suite, specifically affecting the index.php script. This vulnerability exploits a fundamental weakness in input validation and query construction practices, creating a pathway for malicious actors to manipulate database operations through crafted HTTP requests. The flaw manifests when the PHP configuration parameter magic_quotes_gpc is disabled, which removes the automatic escaping of special characters in GET, POST, and COOKIE data, thereby exposing the application to direct SQL command injection attacks.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the improper handling of the lang parameter within the index.php script. When an attacker submits a malicious value through this parameter, the application fails to sanitize or escape the input before incorporating it into SQL queries. This creates a condition where arbitrary SQL commands can be executed within the database context, potentially allowing full database compromise. The vulnerability operates under CWE-89 which specifically addresses SQL injection flaws, where insufficient input validation enables attackers to manipulate database queries through malicious input. The attack vector leverages the standard HTTP request mechanism, making it accessible through web-based exploitation techniques.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft, as it provides attackers with the capability to perform complete database manipulation including data extraction, modification, deletion, and potentially unauthorized access to administrative functions. An attacker could exploit this vulnerability to escalate privileges, create backdoor accounts, or even gain shell access to the underlying server if database credentials are sufficient for system-level access. The vulnerability's exploitation is particularly concerning because it requires no special privileges or authentication to initiate the attack, making it a prime target for automated scanning tools and opportunistic attackers. This aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190 which covers exploitation of remote services, specifically targeting web applications through SQL injection vulnerabilities.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2007-0202 must address both immediate remediation and long-term architectural improvements. The most effective immediate solution involves implementing proper input validation and parameterized queries to prevent SQL injection attacks. Organizations should ensure that all user-supplied input is properly sanitized and escaped before being incorporated into database queries. The recommended approach includes upgrading to a patched version of @lex Guestbook, as version 4.0.3 and later contain fixes for this vulnerability. Additionally, enabling magic_quotes_gpc as a temporary workaround can provide protection, though this is not a recommended long-term solution due to PHP's deprecation of this feature. Implementing proper web application firewalls and input validation mechanisms should also be considered to provide additional layers of protection against similar vulnerabilities. The vulnerability underscores the importance of secure coding practices and proper database access controls, emphasizing that all user inputs must be treated as potentially malicious and properly validated before database interaction.