CVE-2007-2889 in Open Source Learning And Knowledge Management Tool
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in tracking/courseLog.php in Dokeos 1.6.5 and earlier allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the scormcontopen parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/18/2024
The CVE-2007-2889 vulnerability represents a critical sql injection flaw discovered in the Dokeos learning management system version 1.6.5 and earlier. This vulnerability specifically affects the tracking/courseLog.php component which is responsible for logging course activities and tracking user interactions within the educational platform. The flaw arises from insufficient input validation and sanitization of user-supplied data, creating an exploitable entry point for malicious actors seeking to compromise the system's database integrity.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through the scormcontopen parameter which is processed without proper sanitization measures. When an attacker submits malicious sql code through this parameter, the application fails to properly escape or validate the input before incorporating it into database queries. This allows the attacker to manipulate the sql execution flow and potentially execute unauthorized database commands. The vulnerability falls under the CWE-89 category of sql injection, which is classified as a serious weakness in application security that enables attackers to bypass authentication, extract sensitive data, modify database contents, or even gain complete system control.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft, as it provides attackers with the capability to manipulate the entire learning management system. An attacker could potentially access student records, course materials, administrator credentials, or other sensitive educational data stored within the Dokeos database. The vulnerability also enables privilege escalation attacks where attackers might elevate their access levels to administrative privileges, thereby gaining complete control over the platform. According to the mitre att&ck framework, this vulnerability maps to the credential access and defense evasion tactics, as attackers can both extract credentials and potentially cover their tracks through database manipulation.
Organizations running Dokeos 1.6.5 or earlier versions face significant security risks due to this vulnerability. The attack surface is particularly concerning given that learning management systems often contain sensitive personal and educational data that is highly valuable to cybercriminals. The vulnerability's remote exploitation capability means that attackers do not need physical access to the system or network to exploit it, making it particularly dangerous for organizations with internet-facing educational platforms. Security professionals should note that this vulnerability was identified in 2007, indicating that many legacy systems may still be running vulnerable versions of Dokeos without proper patching.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2007-2889 require immediate attention and comprehensive remediation efforts. The most effective solution involves upgrading to a patched version of Dokeos that addresses this sql injection vulnerability. Organizations should also implement input validation measures at the application level, including parameterized queries and proper sql escaping techniques. Additionally, network segmentation and access controls should be enforced to limit exposure of vulnerable components. The implementation of web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems can provide additional layers of protection against exploitation attempts. Security monitoring should include regular vulnerability assessments and penetration testing to identify and remediate similar weaknesses in the broader application ecosystem.