CVE-2007-0630 in xNews
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple SQL injection vulnerabilities in the generate_csv function in classes/class.news.php in X-dev xNews 1.3 and earlier allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the (1) id, (2) from, and (3) q parameters, different vectors than CVE-2007-0569. NOTE: The provenance of this information is unknown; the details are obtained solely from third party information.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/01/2017
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-0630 represents a critical SQL injection flaw within the xNews 1.3 content management system, specifically targeting the generate_csv function in the classes/class.news.php file. This vulnerability exists in the web application's handling of user-supplied input parameters, creating a pathway for malicious actors to execute unauthorized database operations. The flaw affects versions 1.3 and earlier of the X-dev xNews platform, making it a significant concern for organizations that have not upgraded their systems. The vulnerability's classification under CWE-89 indicates it falls squarely within the category of SQL injection attacks, where improper input validation allows attackers to manipulate database queries through crafted malicious input. This vulnerability demonstrates the classic pattern of insufficient input sanitization where user data directly influences database query construction without adequate filtering or parameterization.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through three distinct parameter vectors: id, from, and q, each representing different entry points where attacker-controlled data can be injected into the SQL query execution flow. When these parameters are processed by the generate_csv function, they are not properly sanitized or parameterized before being incorporated into database queries. This creates an environment where malicious SQL commands can be appended to legitimate queries, potentially allowing attackers to extract sensitive data, modify database contents, or even gain administrative access to the underlying database system. The vulnerability's impact extends beyond simple data theft as it can enable complete database compromise, especially when the application's database user has elevated privileges. The fact that this vulnerability operates through different vectors than CVE-2007-0569 suggests a broader attack surface within the application's codebase, indicating potential systemic issues in input handling practices across multiple functions.
From an operational standpoint, this vulnerability presents a severe risk to organizations running affected xNews installations, as it allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands without requiring authentication. The implications include potential data breaches, unauthorized modifications to content, and complete database compromise. Attackers could leverage this vulnerability to extract user credentials, sensitive business information, or other confidential data stored within the database. The remote nature of the attack means that exploitation can occur from anywhere on the internet, making the vulnerability particularly dangerous for publicly accessible web applications. Organizations may face regulatory compliance issues and potential legal consequences if sensitive data is compromised through this vulnerability. The attack vectors (id, from, and q parameters) provide multiple opportunities for exploitation, increasing the probability of successful compromise and making defensive measures more challenging to implement effectively.
The recommended mitigation strategies for this vulnerability involve immediate application of security patches or updates provided by the vendor, as well as implementing proper input validation and parameterization techniques. Organizations should ensure that all user-supplied input is properly sanitized before being incorporated into database queries, utilizing prepared statements or parameterized queries to prevent SQL injection attacks. The implementation of input validation controls at multiple layers of the application architecture can provide defense-in-depth protection against similar vulnerabilities. Additionally, organizations should conduct comprehensive security assessments of their web applications to identify other potential injection points and ensure that all database interactions follow secure coding practices. Network-based protections such as web application firewalls can provide additional layers of defense while permanent fixes are implemented, though these should not be considered substitutes for proper code-level remediation. The vulnerability's classification aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190, which describes exploitation of remote services for initial access, and T1071.004, which covers application layer protocol usage for command and control communications, highlighting the broader attack surface implications of such vulnerabilities in web applications.