CVE-2007-1838 in Friendfinder Module
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in view.php in the Friendfinder 3.3 and earlier module for Xoops allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the id parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/01/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-1838 represents a critical sql injection flaw within the friendfinder module version 3.3 and earlier of the Xoops content management system. This vulnerability specifically affects the view.php script which processes user input through the id parameter, creating an exploitable condition that allows malicious actors to inject arbitrary sql commands into the database layer. The flaw stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization mechanisms within the module's codebase, enabling attackers to manipulate the sql query execution flow by crafting malicious payloads in the id parameter.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-89 which categorizes sql injection as a weakness where untrusted data is incorporated into sql commands without proper sanitization or parameterization. Attackers can exploit this by submitting specially crafted sql payloads through the id parameter in view.php, potentially gaining unauthorized access to sensitive database information, modifying or deleting records, or even executing administrative commands on the underlying database system. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it operates at the database interaction layer, bypassing typical application-level security controls and potentially allowing full database compromise.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft, encompassing complete system compromise potential within the scope of the affected Xoops installation. Remote attackers can leverage this flaw to escalate privileges, extract confidential user information including passwords and personal data, manipulate content, and potentially establish persistent backdoors within the application environment. The vulnerability affects all versions up to and including 3.3, making it a widespread concern for organizations maintaining legacy Xoops installations. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to T1190 (exploitation for lateral movement) and T1071.004 (application layer protocols) as attackers can use it to gain deeper access to systems and move laterally through compromised networks.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2007-1838 require immediate action including upgrading to the patched version of the friendfinder module or implementing proper input validation techniques. Organizations should apply the official security patches released by Xoops developers to address the sql injection vulnerability directly. Additionally, implementing proper parameterized queries or prepared statements in the view.php script would prevent the injection of malicious sql code. Network segmentation and database access controls should be reviewed to limit the potential impact of successful exploitation. Regular security audits and input validation testing should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other modules or components of the Xoops system, ensuring comprehensive protection against sql injection attacks. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of maintaining up-to-date software versions and implementing robust security practices in web application development.