CVE-2008-2278 in Freelance Auction Script
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in browseproject.php in Freelance Auction Script 1.0 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the pid parameter in a pdetails action.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/22/2024
The CVE-2008-2278 vulnerability represents a critical sql injection flaw in the Freelance Auction Script version 1.0 that fundamentally compromises the integrity and confidentiality of web applications. This vulnerability specifically targets the browseproject.php script where user input is not properly sanitized before being incorporated into sql queries. The pid parameter within the pdetails action serves as the primary attack vector, allowing malicious actors to inject arbitrary sql commands that bypass normal authentication and authorization mechanisms. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and improper parameter handling within the application's database interaction layer, creating an exploitable condition where attacker-controlled data directly influences sql statement construction. This flaw exemplifies the classic sql injection attack pattern where user-supplied parameters are concatenated directly into sql queries without proper sanitization or parameterization.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability enables remote code execution through sql injection techniques that manipulate database queries to retrieve, modify, or delete sensitive information. Attackers can exploit the pid parameter to construct malicious sql payloads that bypass authentication checks and gain unauthorized access to the underlying database system. The vulnerability allows for privilege escalation and data exfiltration, as the injected sql commands can access administrative tables, user credentials, and other confidential data stored within the application's database. This type of vulnerability falls under the common weakness enumeration CWE-89 which specifically addresses sql injection flaws where untrusted data is incorporated into sql commands without proper validation or sanitization. The attack surface is particularly concerning as it affects a core functionality component of the auction script, potentially enabling attackers to compromise entire user bases and financial transaction records.
The operational impact of CVE-2008-2278 extends beyond immediate data compromise to encompass long-term security implications for organizations using vulnerable systems. Successful exploitation can result in complete database compromise, leading to unauthorized modification of auction listings, manipulation of bidding processes, and theft of sensitive user information including personal details and financial records. The vulnerability also creates opportunities for attackers to establish persistent access points within the application environment, potentially enabling further lateral movement and escalation within the network infrastructure. From an att&ck framework perspective, this vulnerability maps to techniques such as t1071.004 (application layer protocol: dns) and t1059.001 (command and scripting interpreter: powershell) through the exploitation of database interfaces and command execution capabilities. Organizations may face regulatory compliance violations, financial losses, and reputational damage when such vulnerabilities are exploited in real-world scenarios.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2008-2278 should prioritize immediate patching of the vulnerable application version and implementation of proper input validation mechanisms throughout the codebase. The recommended approach involves adopting parameterized queries or prepared statements to prevent sql injection attacks by separating sql code from user input data. Organizations should implement web application firewalls and input sanitization filters to detect and block malicious sql injection attempts before they reach the database layer. Regular security assessments and code reviews should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities within the application architecture, particularly focusing on database interaction points and user input handling mechanisms. Additionally, implementing proper access controls and database permissions can limit the damage from successful exploitation attempts, while maintaining comprehensive logging and monitoring systems to detect unauthorized database access patterns and sql injection activities. The vulnerability underscores the importance of secure coding practices and proper input validation as fundamental defensive measures against sql injection attacks.