CVE-2007-1575 in PHProjekt
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple SQL injection vulnerabilities in PHProjekt 5.2.0, when magic_quotes_gpc is disabled, allow remote authenticated users to execute arbitrary SQL commands via (1) unspecified vectors to the (a) calendar and (2) search modules, and an (2) unspecified cookie when the user logs out.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/09/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-1575 represents a critical SQL injection flaw affecting PHProjekt version 5.2.0, specifically when the PHP configuration parameter magic_quotes_gpc is disabled. This configuration setting, when turned off, removes automatic escaping of special characters in GET, POST, and COOKIE data, creating an environment where malicious SQL payloads can be directly executed. The vulnerability manifests across multiple modules within the application, particularly targeting the calendar and search functionalities, while also affecting session handling during user logout operations.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through unvalidated user input processing in the calendar and search modules, where user-supplied data flows directly into SQL query construction without proper sanitization or parameterization. When magic_quotes_gpc is disabled, attackers can craft malicious input strings that contain SQL syntax, allowing them to manipulate database queries and potentially execute arbitrary commands on the underlying database server. The cookie-based component of the vulnerability during logout operations suggests that session data persistence could also be exploited to maintain unauthorized access or manipulate user sessions.
This vulnerability directly maps to CWE-89, which defines SQL injection as the insertion of malicious SQL code into input fields for execution by the database. The impact of exploitation extends beyond simple data theft to include complete database compromise, unauthorized access to sensitive information, and potential system control. The authenticated nature of the attack means that attackers must first obtain valid credentials, but the privilege escalation potential remains significant since database-level commands can be executed with the privileges of the database user account.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability creates a substantial risk for organizations using PHProjekt 5.2.0 in production environments, particularly those with databases containing sensitive user information, project data, or business-critical records. The exploitation requires minimal technical skill and can result in comprehensive data breaches, system compromise, and potential regulatory compliance violations. The fact that the vulnerability affects both active modules and session handling during logout operations indicates a broader attack surface that could be leveraged for prolonged unauthorized access.
Mitigation strategies should include immediate implementation of input validation and parameterized queries throughout all application modules, particularly those handling user input in database operations. The most effective immediate fix involves enabling magic_quotes_gpc or implementing comprehensive input sanitization measures, while the long-term solution requires complete application code review and adoption of secure coding practices. Organizations should also implement proper session management with secure cookie handling, regular security updates, and database access controls to limit potential damage from successful exploitation attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper input validation and the dangers of relying on configuration settings that provide automatic protection against common injection attacks.