CVE-2007-5978 in mylinks module
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in brokenlink.php in the mylinks module for XOOPS allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the lid parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/05/2017
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-5978 represents a critical SQL injection flaw within the mylinks module of the XOOPS content management system. This vulnerability exists in the brokenlink.php script which processes user input through the lid parameter, creating an avenue for malicious actors to manipulate database queries and execute unauthorized commands. The issue stems from insufficient input validation and sanitization mechanisms that fail to properly escape or filter user-supplied data before incorporating it into SQL statements. This allows attackers to inject malicious SQL code that can be interpreted by the database engine, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-89 which specifically addresses SQL injection weaknesses in software applications. From an operational perspective, this vulnerability exposes the XOOPS platform to significant risk as remote attackers can exploit it without requiring authentication credentials, making it particularly dangerous in publicly accessible environments.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker submits a crafted lid parameter value that contains malicious SQL syntax to the brokenlink.php endpoint. The application fails to validate or sanitize this input before executing it within a database query, enabling the attacker to manipulate the intended query structure. This type of injection can allow for data extraction, modification, or deletion of sensitive information stored within the database. Attackers may leverage this vulnerability to escalate privileges, bypass authentication mechanisms, or even gain shell access to the underlying server. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this as a SQL Injection technique under the T1071.004 sub-technique for application layer protocols, specifically targeting database communication channels. The vulnerability demonstrates a classic lack of proper input sanitization and parameterized query implementation, which are fundamental security practices recommended by both OWASP and NIST cybersecurity guidelines.
The operational impact of CVE-2007-5978 extends beyond simple data theft, as it can result in complete system compromise and unauthorized access to sensitive user information. Organizations running affected XOOPS installations face potential data breaches, regulatory compliance violations, and reputational damage. The vulnerability affects the integrity and confidentiality of database contents, potentially exposing user credentials, personal information, and system configurations. Attackers can use this weakness to establish persistent access, create backdoors, or perform lateral movement within network environments where the vulnerable system resides. The exploitation of such vulnerabilities often leads to cascading security issues, as compromised systems can serve as launch points for further attacks. Organizations should implement immediate mitigation strategies including input validation, parameterized queries, and access controls to protect against this and similar injection attacks. The vulnerability highlights the critical importance of regular security assessments and timely patch management for content management systems, as outdated software versions frequently contain known vulnerabilities that attackers actively exploit in the wild.