CVE-2007-4069 in Index Script
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in show_cat.php in IndexScript 2.8 and earlier allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the cat_id parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/28/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-4069 represents a critical sql injection flaw within the IndexScript 2.8 content management system, specifically affecting the show_cat.php script. This vulnerability resides in the handling of user input through the cat_id parameter, which is processed without proper sanitization or validation. The flaw allows remote attackers to inject malicious sql commands directly into the application's database query execution flow, potentially compromising the entire database infrastructure. The vulnerability affects all versions of IndexScript up to and including version 2.8, making it a widespread concern for organizations utilizing this particular cms platform. The sql injection occurs because the application directly incorporates user-supplied input into sql queries without any form of input filtering or parameterized query construction, creating an exploitable entry point for malicious actors.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability follows a classic sql injection attack pattern where an attacker crafts malicious input containing sql payload within the cat_id parameter. When the show_cat.php script processes this parameter, it concatenates the user input directly into the sql query string without any sanitization measures. This allows attackers to manipulate the intended sql query execution by injecting sql syntax that alters the query logic, potentially extracting sensitive data, modifying database contents, or even gaining administrative access to the database. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-89 which specifically addresses sql injection flaws in software applications. The attack vector is remote and requires no authentication, making it particularly dangerous as any user with access to the vulnerable application can exploit this weakness. The impact extends beyond simple data theft to include potential complete database compromise and system infiltration.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and multifaceted, affecting both data integrity and system availability. Organizations running IndexScript 2.8 or earlier versions face significant risk of unauthorized data access, data corruption, and potential complete database compromise. The vulnerability can enable attackers to extract sensitive information including user credentials, personal data, and business-critical information stored within the database. Additionally, the attack could lead to data modification or deletion, causing operational disruptions and potential financial losses. The vulnerability's remote nature means that attackers can exploit it from anywhere on the internet, making it particularly dangerous for web applications exposed to public networks. This type of vulnerability is often classified under the attack technique of command execution in the mitre ATT&CK framework, specifically within the execution phase of cyber attacks. The exposure of such a vulnerability in a widely used cms platform like IndexScript creates a significant risk for numerous organizations that may not be aware of the specific flaw or its potential impact.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2007-4069 should focus on immediate remediation through software updates and implementation of proper input validation measures. The primary solution involves upgrading to IndexScript version 2.9 or later, where the vulnerability has been patched and proper input sanitization has been implemented. Organizations should also implement proper parameterized queries or prepared statements in their applications to prevent similar vulnerabilities from occurring. Input validation should be enforced at multiple levels including application logic, database layer, and network perimeter. Additionally, implementing web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems can help detect and block malicious sql injection attempts. Security monitoring should be enhanced to track unauthorized access attempts and sql query patterns that may indicate exploitation attempts. Organizations should also conduct regular security assessments and penetration testing to identify similar vulnerabilities in their software infrastructure. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper input handling and the critical need for secure coding practices in web application development, aligning with industry standards such as the owasp top 10 and the iso 27001 information security management requirements.