CVE-2007-6656 in CMS Made Simple
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in content_css.php in the TinyMCE module for CMS Made Simple 1.2.2 and earlier allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the templateid parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/13/2024
The CVE-2007-6656 vulnerability represents a critical SQL injection flaw within the TinyMCE module of CMS Made Simple versions 1.2.2 and earlier. This vulnerability exists in the content_css.php script which processes user-supplied input through the templateid parameter without proper sanitization or validation. The flaw allows remote attackers to inject malicious SQL commands directly into the database query execution flow, potentially enabling full database compromise and unauthorized access to sensitive information.
The technical nature of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-89, which specifically addresses SQL injection weaknesses in software applications. The vulnerability occurs because the application fails to properly escape or parameterize user input before incorporating it into SQL queries. When the templateid parameter is processed, the application directly concatenates user-supplied data into the database query string without adequate input validation or sanitization mechanisms. This creates an exploitable condition where attackers can manipulate the query structure to execute arbitrary SQL commands, potentially gaining access to administrative privileges, extracting database contents, or modifying critical application data.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft, as it provides attackers with the capability to escalate privileges within the CMS environment. Remote attackers can leverage this flaw to execute commands with the privileges of the database user account, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The vulnerability affects all installations running CMS Made Simple 1.2.2 or earlier versions, making it particularly dangerous given the widespread adoption of this content management system. Attackers can exploit this vulnerability through web-based interfaces without requiring local system access, making it a significant concern for web application security.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2007-6656 should focus on immediate patching and input validation improvements. Organizations must upgrade to CMS Made Simple versions 1.2.3 or later where this vulnerability has been addressed through proper input sanitization and parameterized query implementation. Additionally, implementing proper input validation at the application level, using prepared statements, and applying the principle of least privilege for database connections can significantly reduce the risk of exploitation. Network-level defenses such as web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems can provide additional protection layers, though these should not replace proper application-level fixes. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of input validation in preventing injection attacks and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190 for exploiting vulnerabilities in web applications, emphasizing the need for comprehensive security measures beyond traditional perimeter defenses.