CVE-2007-3939 in Vivvo Article Management CMS
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in index.php in SpoonLabs Vivvo Article Management CMS (aka phpWordPress) CMS 3.4 and earlier allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the category parameter.
Be aware that VulDB is the high quality source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/26/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-3939 represents a critical SQL injection flaw within the SpoonLabs Vivvo Article Management CMS, specifically affecting versions 3.4 and earlier. This vulnerability exists in the index.php file and manifests through improper input validation of the category parameter, creating a pathway for malicious actors to execute unauthorized SQL commands against the underlying database system. The issue stems from the application's failure to adequately sanitize user-supplied input before incorporating it into database queries, which directly violates fundamental secure coding practices and industry standards.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker crafts a malicious category parameter value that contains SQL payload code. When the vulnerable application processes this input without proper sanitization or parameterization, the malicious SQL commands become part of the actual database query execution. This allows attackers to manipulate the database structure, extract sensitive information, modify or delete data, and potentially gain elevated privileges within the database environment. The vulnerability is classified as a classic SQL injection attack pattern that aligns with CWE-89, which specifically addresses improper neutralization of special elements used in SQL commands. The attack vector is remote and requires no authentication, making it particularly dangerous as it can be exploited from anywhere on the internet.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data compromise, as it can lead to complete system takeover and unauthorized access to sensitive user information, content management data, and potentially other connected systems. Organizations using affected versions of Vivvo CMS face significant risk of data breaches, service disruption, and potential regulatory compliance violations. The vulnerability's remote exploitability means that attackers can target systems without requiring physical access or prior authentication, making it an attractive target for automated scanning and exploitation campaigns. This type of vulnerability commonly maps to ATT&CK technique T1071.004, which describes application layer protocol manipulation, and T1190, which covers exploitation of remote services.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2007-3939 primarily focus on immediate remediation through software updates to versions that address the SQL injection vulnerability. Organizations should implement proper input validation and parameterized queries to prevent similar issues in future development cycles. Database access controls should be reviewed and restricted to minimize potential damage from successful exploitation attempts. Additionally, web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems can provide additional layers of protection by monitoring for suspicious SQL injection patterns in network traffic. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of regular security updates and proper code review processes to prevent such fundamental flaws from persisting in production environments, particularly in content management systems that handle sensitive user data and business-critical information.