CVE-2007-0789 in Mambo
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in Mambo before 4.5.5 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via unspecified vectors in cancel edit functions, possibly related to the id parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/18/2018
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-0789 represents a critical SQL injection flaw within the Mambo content management system prior to version 4.5.5. This vulnerability resides in the cancel edit functions of the application, where malicious actors can manipulate input parameters to inject arbitrary SQL commands into the database layer. The attack vector specifically targets what appears to be an id parameter, though the exact implementation details remain unspecified in the original description. This type of vulnerability falls under the broader category of CWE-89 SQL Injection as defined by the Common Weakness Enumeration catalog, which categorizes it as a severe flaw that allows attackers to bypass authentication, extract sensitive data, or even modify database contents. The vulnerability's classification aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190 - Proxy Process, as attackers can leverage this weakness to establish unauthorized database access and execute malicious commands through the compromised application interface.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when the Mambo application fails to properly sanitize or validate user input within the cancel edit functionality. When a user attempts to cancel an edit operation, the system processes an id parameter that should contain only legitimate identifiers but can instead be manipulated to contain malicious SQL code. The absence of proper input validation and parameterized query construction creates an environment where attackers can inject SQL commands that execute with the privileges of the database user account under which the Mambo application operates. This typically results in a complete compromise of the database layer, allowing attackers to perform unauthorized read, write, or delete operations on the underlying data store. The vulnerability's impact extends beyond simple data theft as it can enable attackers to escalate privileges, create backdoors, or even gain shell access to the underlying server depending on the database configuration and permissions granted to the application.
The operational impact of CVE-2007-0789 is substantial for organizations utilizing affected versions of Mambo, as it provides remote attackers with unrestricted access to the database backend. This vulnerability can be exploited without requiring authentication, making it particularly dangerous as attackers can immediately begin extracting sensitive information including user credentials, personal data, and business-critical information stored within the database. The attack surface is further expanded as the vulnerability exists in core application functions that are frequently accessed, increasing the likelihood of exploitation. Organizations may face severe consequences including data breaches, regulatory penalties under data protection laws, and reputational damage when such vulnerabilities are exploited. The vulnerability also represents a significant risk for web application security posture as it demonstrates poor input validation practices and inadequate protection mechanisms that should be standard in modern application development. The exploitation of this flaw can lead to complete system compromise and persistent access, as attackers can use the database access to install malicious code or establish unauthorized persistent connections.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2007-0789 should prioritize immediate remediation through the application of vendor patches or updates to Mambo version 4.5.5 or later, which contain proper input validation and sanitization measures. Organizations should implement proper parameterized queries and prepared statements to prevent SQL injection attacks, ensuring that all user inputs are properly escaped or validated before processing. Input validation should be enforced at multiple levels including application, database, and network layers, with strict sanitization of all parameters including the id field mentioned in the vulnerability description. Network security controls such as web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems should be configured to monitor for suspicious SQL injection patterns and block malicious payloads. Additionally, organizations should conduct comprehensive security assessments of their web applications to identify similar vulnerabilities and implement secure coding practices that align with industry standards such as the OWASP Top Ten and NIST guidelines. Regular security testing including penetration testing and vulnerability scanning should be performed to ensure that similar vulnerabilities are not present in other components of the web application stack. The implementation of principle of least privilege for database accounts and regular security audits can further reduce the impact of such vulnerabilities should they be present in other parts of the system.