CVE-2008-0880 in EasyContent module
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in modules.php in the EasyContent module for PHP-Nuke allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the page_id parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/17/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-0880 represents a critical SQL injection flaw within the EasyContent module for PHP-Nuke systems. This security weakness exists in the modules.php file where the page_id parameter is processed without adequate input validation or sanitization measures. The vulnerability allows remote attackers to manipulate database queries by injecting malicious SQL commands through the page_id parameter, potentially enabling unauthorized access to sensitive data and system compromise.
This SQL injection vulnerability falls under CWE-89, which specifically addresses improper neutralization of special elements used in SQL commands. The flaw exploits the lack of proper parameter validation and sanitization mechanisms that should normally protect against malicious input. The EasyContent module's failure to implement secure coding practices creates an attack surface where an unauthenticated remote threat actor can inject arbitrary SQL code into the database layer, potentially gaining read access to sensitive information or even executing administrative commands on the database server.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft, as it can enable attackers to escalate privileges and compromise the entire PHP-Nuke installation. Successful exploitation could result in complete database compromise, allowing attackers to extract user credentials, personal information, and other sensitive data stored within the system. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it affects the core content management functionality of PHP-Nuke, which typically handles user-generated content and administrative data. Attackers could leverage this flaw to manipulate content, inject malicious code, or establish persistent access to the compromised system.
From an adversarial perspective, this vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1071.004 for application layer protocol usage and T1046 for network service scanning. The attack vector requires minimal reconnaissance as the vulnerability is directly exposed through the web interface. Security professionals should consider implementing input validation at multiple layers including application firewalls, web application firewalls, and database access controls. The recommended mitigations include implementing proper parameterized queries, input sanitization, and output encoding techniques to prevent SQL injection attacks. Additionally, regular security assessments and code reviews should be conducted to identify and remediate similar vulnerabilities in legacy PHP applications. Organizations using PHP-Nuke systems should prioritize immediate patching or implementation of compensating controls to protect against exploitation of this vulnerability.