CVE-2007-3549 in Buddy Zone
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in view_sub_cat.php in Buddy Zone 1.5 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the cat_id parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/23/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-3549 represents a critical sql injection flaw within the Buddy Zone 1.5 web application, specifically affecting the view_sub_cat.php script. This vulnerability exposes the application to remote code execution attacks through improper input validation mechanisms. The flaw occurs when the application fails to adequately sanitize or escape user-supplied data before incorporating it into sql queries, creating an avenue for malicious actors to manipulate database operations. The cat_id parameter serves as the primary attack vector, where an attacker can inject malicious sql payloads that bypass authentication mechanisms and gain unauthorized access to sensitive database information. This vulnerability directly maps to CWE-89, which categorizes sql injection as a fundamental weakness in software applications where user input is improperly handled during sql query construction.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability allows attackers to manipulate the sql query execution flow by crafting specially formatted inputs that alter the intended database operation. When the cat_id parameter is processed without proper sanitization, the application concatenates user-supplied values directly into sql statements, enabling attackers to inject additional sql commands that execute with the privileges of the web application's database user. This can result in unauthorized data retrieval, modification, or deletion operations, potentially leading to complete database compromise. The vulnerability's impact extends beyond simple data theft as it can enable attackers to escalate privileges within the database environment, execute operating system commands, or establish persistent backdoors within the application infrastructure. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability aligns with technique T1190 for exploit public-facing application and T1078 for valid accounts, as it can be exploited to gain unauthorized access to database resources.
The operational impact of CVE-2007-3549 poses significant risks to organizations utilizing Buddy Zone 1.5, particularly those handling sensitive user information or business-critical data. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to extract confidential information such as user credentials, personal data, or proprietary business information stored within the application's database. The remote nature of the attack means that exploitation can occur from any location without requiring physical access to the target system, making it particularly dangerous for web applications. Organizations may face regulatory compliance violations, financial losses, reputation damage, and potential legal consequences if sensitive data is compromised through this vulnerability. The vulnerability also provides attackers with a potential foothold for further network penetration, as database credentials often grant access to other systems within the organization's infrastructure.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability must address both immediate remediation and long-term security improvements. The primary solution involves implementing proper input validation and parameterized queries to prevent user-supplied data from being interpreted as sql commands. Applications should utilize prepared statements or stored procedures that separate sql logic from user input, ensuring that malicious payloads cannot alter the intended query execution. Additionally, implementing proper access controls, input sanitization, and output encoding mechanisms can significantly reduce the risk of exploitation. Security measures should include regular vulnerability assessments, web application firewalls, and comprehensive monitoring to detect and prevent exploitation attempts. Organizations must also ensure that all software components are regularly updated and patched to address known vulnerabilities, as this particular flaw existed in a version of the software that was vulnerable to such attacks. The remediation process should also include security training for developers to prevent similar issues in future application development cycles, emphasizing the importance of secure coding practices and proper sql query construction techniques.