CVE-2008-1758 in KwsPHP
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in the ConcoursPhoto module for KwsPHP allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the C_ID parameter to index.php.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/20/2024
The CVE-2008-1758 vulnerability represents a critical sql injection flaw within the ConcoursPhoto module of the KwsPHP content management system. This vulnerability specifically targets the C_ID parameter in the index.php file, creating an exploitable pathway for remote attackers to execute arbitrary sql commands against the underlying database. The flaw stems from insufficient input validation and sanitization of user-supplied data, allowing malicious actors to inject sql payloads that bypass normal authentication and authorization mechanisms. The vulnerability is classified under cwe-89, which specifically addresses sql injection vulnerabilities where user input is directly incorporated into sql queries without proper escaping or parameterization.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker submits malicious input through the C_ID parameter, which is then processed by the ConcoursPhoto module without adequate sanitization. This allows attackers to manipulate the sql query structure, potentially gaining unauthorized access to sensitive database information, modifying or deleting records, or even executing system commands depending on the database backend and privilege levels. The vulnerability's remote nature means that attackers do not require local system access or physical presence to exploit the flaw, making it particularly dangerous for web applications exposed to the internet.
The operational impact of CVE-2008-1758 extends beyond simple data theft, as successful exploitation can lead to complete system compromise and unauthorized access to sensitive user information, including personal data, credentials, and potentially financial records. Organizations running affected versions of KwsPHP face significant risk of data breaches, regulatory compliance violations, and potential legal consequences. The vulnerability also enables attackers to escalate privileges within the database, potentially allowing them to execute administrative functions or modify the application's core functionality. This type of vulnerability aligns with attack techniques described in the attack framework under initial access and persistence phases, where attackers establish footholds through web application exploitation.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability primarily focus on input validation and parameterized queries. System administrators should immediately apply available patches or updates from the KwsPHP vendor to address the sql injection flaw. Implementing proper input sanitization measures, including the use of prepared statements and parameterized queries, prevents malicious sql code from being executed. Additionally, network-level protections such as web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems can help detect and block exploitation attempts. Regular security audits and penetration testing should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other components of the web application stack. Organizations should also implement proper database access controls and privilege management to limit the potential damage from successful exploitation attempts, ensuring that database accounts used by web applications have minimal required permissions.