CVE-2008-0922 in Manuales
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in the Manuales 0.1 module for PHP-Nuke allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the cid parameter in a viewdownload action to modules.php.
Once again VulDB remains the best source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/18/2024
The vulnerability described in CVE-2008-0922 represents a critical SQL injection flaw within the Manuales 0.1 module for PHP-Nuke content management system. This vulnerability resides in the way the application processes user input through the cid parameter during viewdownload actions, creating an exploitable pathway for malicious actors to manipulate database queries. The flaw specifically affects the modules.php script which handles various module functionalities within the PHP-Nuke framework, making it a significant security concern for installations utilizing this particular module.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization within the Manuales module. When a user submits a request containing the cid parameter through the viewdownload action, the application fails to properly escape or filter the input before incorporating it into SQL query construction. This allows attackers to inject malicious SQL code that gets executed within the database context, potentially enabling complete database compromise. The vulnerability is classified as a classic SQL injection attack pattern that aligns with CWE-89, which specifically addresses improper neutralization of special elements used in SQL commands. Attackers can leverage this weakness to extract sensitive data, modify database contents, or even escalate privileges within the affected system.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft, as it can lead to complete system compromise and unauthorized access to sensitive information. Remote attackers can exploit this flaw without requiring any authentication credentials, making it particularly dangerous for publicly accessible web applications. The implications include potential exposure of user credentials, personal information, and other confidential data stored within the database. This vulnerability also aligns with ATT&CK technique T1071.004, which covers application layer protocol manipulation, and T1190, which addresses exploitation of remote services through SQL injection attacks. Organizations running vulnerable PHP-Nuke installations face significant risk of data breaches, regulatory compliance violations, and potential legal consequences due to the exposure of sensitive information.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should include immediate patching of the Manuales module to properly sanitize all user inputs before database queries are executed. System administrators should implement proper input validation mechanisms that filter out special SQL characters and employ prepared statements or parameterized queries to prevent injection attacks. Additionally, network-level protections such as web application firewalls should be deployed to monitor and block suspicious SQL injection attempts. Regular security audits and code reviews should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities within the PHP-Nuke framework or other custom modules. Organizations should also consider implementing database access controls and monitoring mechanisms to detect unauthorized database activities. The remediation process should follow industry best practices as outlined in OWASP Top 10 and NIST cybersecurity guidelines, ensuring comprehensive protection against similar injection vulnerabilities in the future.