CVE-2007-1980 in Topliste Module
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in index.php in the Topliste 1.0 module for PHP-Fusion allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the cid parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/03/2024
The CVE-2007-1980 vulnerability represents a critical sql injection flaw within the Topliste 1.0 module for PHP-Fusion content management system. This vulnerability specifically affects the index.php script where user input is not properly sanitized before being incorporated into database queries. The cid parameter serves as the primary attack vector, allowing remote attackers to manipulate the underlying sql query structure and potentially execute unauthorized database operations. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and improper parameter handling within the module's codebase, creating an exploitable condition that can be leveraged by malicious actors without requiring authentication or elevated privileges.
This sql injection vulnerability directly maps to CWE-89 which categorizes improper neutralization of special elements used in sql commands. The flaw enables attackers to inject malicious sql code through the cid parameter, potentially allowing them to extract sensitive database information, modify or delete records, or even escalate privileges within the affected system. The attack surface is particularly concerning given that PHP-Fusion was widely deployed content management systems at the time, making this vulnerability exploitable across numerous websites and web applications. The vulnerability operates at the application layer and can be classified under the ATT&CK technique T1071.004 for application layer protocol manipulation, where attackers exploit web application vulnerabilities to gain unauthorized access to backend database resources.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft, as successful exploitation could lead to complete system compromise and unauthorized access to sensitive user information stored within the database. Attackers could potentially retrieve user credentials, personal information, and other confidential data that may have been stored in the affected database. The vulnerability's remote exploitability means that attackers can target the system from anywhere on the internet without requiring physical access or local network presence, significantly increasing the attack surface and potential damage. Organizations using vulnerable versions of PHP-Fusion with the Topliste 1.0 module face substantial risk of data breaches, system compromise, and potential regulatory violations due to exposure of sensitive information.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should include immediate patching of the affected PHP-Fusion module to ensure proper input validation and parameter sanitization. The recommended approach involves implementing proper sql prepared statements or parameterized queries to prevent injection attacks, along with comprehensive input validation and output encoding. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls to detect and block malicious sql injection attempts, while conducting thorough security audits to identify similar vulnerabilities within other modules or components of the PHP-Fusion installation. Additionally, regular security updates and vulnerability assessments should be implemented as part of ongoing security management practices to prevent similar issues from arising in the future. The remediation process should also include monitoring database logs for any suspicious activity that might indicate exploitation attempts, as well as establishing proper access controls and privilege management to limit potential damage from successful attacks.