CVE-2008-2129 in Galleristic
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in index.php in Galleristic 1.0, when magic_quotes_gpc is disabled, allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the cat parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/21/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-2129 represents a critical sql injection flaw in the Galleristic 1.0 web application's index.php script. This vulnerability specifically targets the handling of the cat parameter, which is processed without proper input sanitization when the php configuration directive magic_quotes_gpc is disabled. The absence of this crucial security mechanism leaves the application exposed to malicious input manipulation that can be exploited to execute unauthorized database operations. The flaw resides in the application's failure to properly escape or validate user-supplied data before incorporating it into sql query constructs, creating an exploitable path for remote attackers to gain unauthorized access to the underlying database system.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker submits malicious input through the cat parameter in the index.php script. Without magic_quotes_gpc enabled, the application directly incorporates user input into sql statements without proper sanitization measures. This allows attackers to inject additional sql commands that can manipulate the database structure, extract sensitive information, modify data, or even execute system commands depending on the database backend and application configuration. The vulnerability specifically leverages the lack of input validation and proper parameterization in sql query construction, which is a fundamental security principle that should always be enforced regardless of php configuration settings.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft, as it provides attackers with potential access to the entire database backend of the affected system. Remote attackers can exploit this flaw to perform unauthorized database operations including data extraction, modification, or deletion, potentially compromising the integrity and confidentiality of all stored information. The vulnerability affects the application's authentication mechanisms and data access controls, as successful exploitation can lead to complete database compromise. Additionally, the attack surface is expanded since the vulnerability can be exploited from any remote location without requiring prior authentication, making it particularly dangerous for publicly accessible web applications.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2008-2129 should focus on implementing proper input validation and parameterized queries to prevent sql injection attacks. The primary remediation involves ensuring that all user-supplied input is properly sanitized and escaped before being incorporated into sql queries, regardless of the magic_quotes_gpc setting. Organizations should implement prepared statements or parameterized queries that separate sql code from data, which is the most effective method for preventing sql injection. Additionally, the application should be updated to a newer version of Galleristic that addresses this vulnerability, as version 1.0 is outdated and likely contains other unpatched security issues. System administrators should also consider implementing web application firewalls and input validation rules that can detect and block suspicious sql injection patterns, aligning with defense-in-depth principles recommended by cybersecurity frameworks such as those outlined in the mitre ATT&CK framework. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of following secure coding practices and adhering to established security standards including those referenced in CWE categories related to sql injection vulnerabilities and improper input handling.