CVE-2008-2444 in CaLogic Calendars
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in userreg.php in CaLogic Calendars 1.2.2 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the langsel parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/22/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-2444 represents a critical SQL injection flaw within the CaLogic Calendars 1.2.2 web application, specifically affecting the userreg.php script. This vulnerability arises from insufficient input validation and sanitization mechanisms that fail to properly handle user-supplied data. The affected parameter, langsel, serves as an entry point for malicious actors to inject arbitrary SQL commands into the application's database layer. The flaw stems from the application's direct incorporation of user input into SQL query construction without appropriate escaping or parameterization techniques, creating a pathway for unauthorized database access and manipulation.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-89, which classifies SQL injection as a condition where an application directly incorporates user-controllable data into SQL commands without proper validation or sanitization. The langsel parameter in userreg.php demonstrates a classic case of insecure data handling where the application accepts language selection values from users and incorporates them directly into database queries. Attackers can exploit this by crafting malicious input that alters the intended SQL query structure, potentially gaining access to sensitive database information, modifying records, or executing destructive operations. The vulnerability exists because the application lacks proper input filtering mechanisms that would prevent special SQL characters and commands from being processed as part of the query execution.
Operationally, this vulnerability presents significant risks to organizations utilizing CaLogic Calendars 1.2.2, as it enables remote code execution capabilities that can lead to complete system compromise. An attacker can leverage this vulnerability to extract confidential data such as user credentials, personal information, and calendar entries from the database. The impact extends beyond simple data theft, as malicious actors can modify or delete calendar entries, potentially disrupting business operations and compromising organizational security. This vulnerability particularly affects environments where the application processes user registrations and language preferences, making it a prime target for exploitation in web application attacks. The remote nature of the vulnerability means that attackers do not require physical access to the system, allowing them to exploit the flaw from any location with internet connectivity.
The mitigation strategies for CVE-2008-2444 should focus on implementing proper input validation and parameterized queries to prevent SQL injection attacks. Organizations must immediately upgrade to a patched version of CaLogic Calendars or implement web application firewalls that can detect and block malicious SQL injection attempts. The recommended approach involves adopting secure coding practices that enforce proper parameterization of all database queries, ensuring that user input is treated as data rather than executable code. Additionally, implementing input sanitization routines that filter out potentially dangerous SQL characters and sequences can significantly reduce the attack surface. Security teams should also conduct regular vulnerability assessments and penetration testing to identify similar flaws in other applications within the organization's infrastructure, as this vulnerability demonstrates how insufficient input validation can create persistent security risks that require immediate remediation.