CVE-2007-1019 in webSPELL
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in news.php in webSPELL 4.01.02, when register_globals is enabled, allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the showonly parameter to index.php, a different vector than CVE-2006-5388.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/23/2024
The vulnerability described in CVE-2007-1019 represents a critical SQL injection flaw within the webSPELL 4.01.02 content management system that specifically exploits the configuration where register_globals is enabled. This vulnerability exists in the news.php component and leverages the showonly parameter in index.php to create a remote code execution vector. The flaw demonstrates how improper input validation combined with dangerous PHP configuration settings can lead to severe database compromise. The vulnerability operates through a different attack vector than CVE-2006-5388, indicating that attackers have multiple pathways to exploit the same system, which increases the overall risk surface.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the improper handling of user-supplied input within the news.php script. When register_globals is enabled, PHP automatically creates global variables from request data, which eliminates proper input sanitization. Attackers can manipulate the showonly parameter in index.php to inject malicious SQL commands that bypass normal access controls and authentication mechanisms. The vulnerability occurs because the application directly incorporates user input into SQL queries without proper escaping or parameterization, allowing attackers to manipulate the database query structure. This creates a condition where malicious SQL code can be executed with the privileges of the web application, potentially leading to complete database compromise.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft or modification. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to gain unauthorized access to sensitive information stored within the webSPELL database, including user credentials, personal data, and system configuration details. The remote execution capability means that attackers do not need physical access to the server and can exploit the vulnerability from anywhere on the internet. This vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it can be exploited to escalate privileges, create backdoors, or even gain shell access to the underlying server. The combination of webSPELL's specific implementation and the dangerous register_globals configuration creates a perfect storm for successful exploitation.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on immediate configuration changes and code-level remediation. The most effective immediate fix is to disable register_globals in the PHP configuration, which eliminates the primary attack vector by preventing automatic creation of global variables from request data. Additionally, all user inputs must be properly sanitized and validated before being incorporated into database queries, implementing proper parameterized queries or prepared statements as recommended by CWE-89. Organizations should also implement input validation mechanisms and consider implementing web application firewalls to detect and block malicious SQL injection attempts. The vulnerability highlights the importance of following secure coding practices and adhering to OWASP Top Ten security guidelines, particularly those related to injection flaws and improper input handling. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1071.004 for application layer protocol manipulation and T1046 for network service discovery, as attackers would likely use this vulnerability to map the database structure and identify additional attack vectors.