CVE-2008-2417 in Webboard
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in showQAnswer.asp in How2ASP.net Webboard 4.1 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the qNo parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/23/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-2417 represents a critical SQL injection flaw within the How2ASP.net Webboard 4.1 application, specifically affecting the showQAnswer.asp component. This vulnerability resides in the handling of user input through the qNo parameter, which is processed without adequate sanitization or validation mechanisms. The flaw enables remote attackers to inject malicious SQL code directly into the application's database query execution pipeline, potentially compromising the entire backend database infrastructure.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper input validation within the web application's query processing logic. When the qNo parameter is submitted through the web interface, the application directly incorporates this value into SQL queries without employing parameterized queries or proper input sanitization techniques. This primitive approach to data handling creates an exploitable entry point where attackers can manipulate the SQL command structure by injecting malicious payloads through the qNo parameter. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-89 which specifically addresses improper neutralization of special elements used in SQL commands, making it a classic example of untrusted input processing leading to database compromise.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends far beyond simple data retrieval manipulation, as it provides attackers with potentially full database access capabilities. Remote attackers can execute arbitrary SQL commands, which may result in data exfiltration, data modification, unauthorized account creation, or even complete system compromise depending on the database privileges. The vulnerability affects the integrity and confidentiality of all data stored within the webboard's database, including user credentials, forum posts, and potentially sensitive personal information. This type of vulnerability is particularly dangerous in web applications that handle user-generated content and personal data, as it can lead to widespread data breaches and compliance violations under regulations such as gdpr and pci dss.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability must address both immediate remediation and long-term architectural improvements to prevent similar issues. The primary fix involves implementing proper parameterized queries or prepared statements throughout the application codebase, ensuring that user input is never directly concatenated into SQL commands. Additionally, input validation and sanitization measures should be implemented at multiple layers including application-level filtering, web application firewalls, and database-level access controls. The remediation process should also include comprehensive code reviews and security testing to identify other potential injection points within the application. Organizations should consider implementing the principle of least privilege for database accounts, ensuring that the web application only has the minimum required permissions to perform its intended functions, thereby limiting potential damage from successful exploitation attempts. This vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of following secure coding practices and adhering to established security frameworks such as those recommended by owasp and nist for preventing injection vulnerabilities in web applications.