CVE-2008-2013 in pnFlashGames
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in index.php in the pnFlashGames 1.5 through 2.5 module for PostNuke, when magic_quotes_gpc is disabled, allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the id parameter in a display action.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/21/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-2013 represents a critical sql injection flaw within the pnFlashGames module version 1.5 through 2.5 for the PostNuke content management system. This vulnerability specifically affects the index.php file and operates under the condition where magic_quotes_gpc is disabled on the web server configuration. The flaw arises from insufficient input validation and sanitization of user-supplied data, creating an exploitable entry point for malicious actors to manipulate database queries through crafted input parameters.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the module's failure to properly escape or filter user input when processing the id parameter during display actions. When magic_quotes_gpc is disabled, the server does not automatically escape special characters in GET, POST, and COOKIE data, leaving the application susceptible to sql injection attacks. Attackers can construct malicious sql payloads within the id parameter that bypass normal input validation mechanisms, allowing them to execute unauthorized database operations including data retrieval, modification, or deletion.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft, as it provides attackers with potential access to sensitive user information, administrative privileges, and the ability to modify or destroy database content. The affected pnFlashGames module typically handles game displays and user interactions, making it a valuable target for attackers seeking to compromise the entire PostNuke installation. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-89 which specifically addresses sql injection flaws, and represents a classic example of how improper input handling can lead to complete system compromise.
From an attack perspective, this vulnerability maps to several ATT&CK techniques including T1071.004 for application layer protocol and T1046 for network service scanning. The exploitation process typically involves crafting malicious payloads that manipulate the sql query structure to extract database schema information, bypass authentication mechanisms, or inject additional sql commands. The vulnerability's severity is amplified by the fact that it requires minimal privileges to exploit, as the attacker only needs to send specially crafted requests to the vulnerable endpoint.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability include immediate implementation of input validation and sanitization measures, ensuring magic_quotes_gpc is properly configured, and applying the vendor-provided patches or updates to the pnFlashGames module. Organizations should also implement proper parameterized queries, maintain up-to-date security monitoring, and consider database access controls to limit potential damage from successful exploitation attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper input validation and the dangers of relying on server configuration settings for security purposes rather than implementing robust application-level protections.