CVE-2007-5991 in ExoPHPdesk
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in index.php in ExoPHPdesk allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the user parameter in a profile fn action.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/11/2018
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-5991 represents a critical sql injection flaw within the ExoPHPdesk application's index.php script. This security weakness specifically manifests when processing the user parameter during a profile fn action, creating an avenue for remote attackers to execute arbitrary sql commands against the underlying database system. The flaw stems from insufficient input validation and sanitization mechanisms that fail to properly escape or filter user-supplied data before incorporating it into sql query constructs. This type of vulnerability falls under the common weakness enumeration category of CWE-89 sql injection, which is classified as a serious security defect that can lead to complete system compromise when exploited effectively. The attack vector is particularly dangerous because it allows remote execution without requiring authentication or elevated privileges, making it accessible to any attacker who can interact with the vulnerable web application interface.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs when the application processes user input through the profile fn action pathway, where the user parameter is directly concatenated into sql statements without proper sanitization. This primitive injection technique enables attackers to manipulate the intended sql query execution flow by injecting malicious sql code that gets executed within the database context. The vulnerability affects the database layer directly, potentially allowing attackers to extract sensitive information, modify or delete data, or even escalate privileges within the database system. The flaw demonstrates poor application security practices regarding input handling and sql query construction, as it fails to implement proper parameterized queries or input validation mechanisms that would prevent such injection attacks. This weakness can be mapped to attack techniques documented in the mitre ATT&CK framework under the T1071.004 application layer protocol manipulation category, where adversaries exploit application vulnerabilities to execute malicious code.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft, as successful exploitation can result in complete database compromise and potential system-wide infiltration. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to access sensitive user information, including personal details, authentication credentials, and other confidential data stored within the application's database. The vulnerability's remote nature means that attackers do not require physical access to the system or network to exploit it, making it particularly dangerous in publicly accessible web applications. Organizations using ExoPHPdesk may face regulatory compliance violations, data breach notifications, and potential legal consequences if this vulnerability is exploited to access protected information. The attack requires minimal technical expertise to execute, as it relies on standard sql injection techniques that have been well-documented and widely available in security research communities. This vulnerability also poses risks to the application's integrity and availability, as malicious actors could potentially corrupt or destroy database contents through destructive sql injection payloads.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2007-5991 should focus on implementing proper input validation and parameterized query construction throughout the application codebase. The most effective approach involves replacing direct sql string concatenation with prepared statements or parameterized queries that separate sql code from user data. Organizations should also implement comprehensive input sanitization routines that filter or escape special sql characters and keywords before processing user input. Additionally, web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems can provide additional layers of protection by monitoring for suspicious sql injection patterns in network traffic. Regular security code reviews and vulnerability assessments should be conducted to identify similar weaknesses throughout the application architecture. The implementation of proper access controls and database user privilege management can limit the potential damage from successful exploitation attempts. Organizations should also establish robust incident response procedures to quickly detect and respond to exploitation attempts, including monitoring database logs for unusual sql query patterns and implementing automated alerting mechanisms for suspicious activities. The vulnerability highlights the importance of maintaining up-to-date security practices and the necessity of regular security testing to identify and remediate such critical flaws before they can be exploited by malicious actors.