CVE-2007-4085 in AskMe Pro
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple SQL injection vulnerabilities in AlstraSoft AskMe Pro allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the (1) que_id parameter to forum_answer.php or (2) the cat_id parameter to search.php.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/02/2025
The vulnerability described in CVE-2007-4085 represents a critical security flaw in AlstraSoft AskMe Pro software that exposes the application to remote SQL injection attacks. This issue affects two distinct parameters within different script files, creating multiple attack vectors for malicious actors seeking to compromise the system. The vulnerability resides in the improper handling of user-supplied input, specifically in how the application processes que_id parameter in forum_answer.php and cat_id parameter in search.php. These parameters are directly incorporated into SQL queries without adequate sanitization or parameterization, creating an exploitable condition that allows attackers to manipulate database operations through crafted input.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability follows standard SQL injection patterns where attackers can inject malicious SQL code through the vulnerable parameters. When the que_id parameter in forum_answer.php is manipulated, or when the cat_id parameter in search.php is exploited, the application fails to properly escape or validate user input before incorporating it into database queries. This allows attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands on the underlying database system, potentially gaining unauthorized access to sensitive data, modifying database content, or even escalating privileges within the database environment. The vulnerability directly maps to CWE-89 which defines SQL injection as the insertion of malicious SQL code into input fields for execution by the database.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft, as it provides attackers with potential access to the entire database infrastructure supporting the AskMe Pro application. Remote attackers can leverage these vulnerabilities to extract confidential information, modify or delete database records, and potentially establish persistent access to the system. The attack surface is particularly concerning because both vulnerable endpoints are likely to be frequently accessed by legitimate users, making exploitation more probable. The vulnerability also aligns with ATT&CK technique T1071.005 which describes the use of SQL injection to gain unauthorized access to databases, and T1190 which covers the exploitation of vulnerabilities in web applications to execute arbitrary code.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability must focus on implementing proper input validation and parameterized queries throughout the application code. The most effective approach involves replacing direct parameter concatenation with prepared statements or parameterized queries that separate SQL code from data input. Additionally, implementing proper input sanitization routines and employing web application firewalls can provide additional layers of protection. The system should also enforce proper access controls and implement least privilege principles to limit the potential damage from successful exploitation. Regular security assessments and code reviews should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other parts of the application, as this type of flaw often indicates broader security issues within the software architecture. Organizations should also consider implementing database activity monitoring and intrusion detection systems to detect potential exploitation attempts.