CVE-2008-2477 in Mxbb Portal
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in index.php in MxBB (aka MX-System) Portal 2.7.3 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the page parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/24/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-2477 represents a critical SQL injection flaw within the MxBB (also known as MX-System) Portal version 2.7.3. This security weakness resides in the index.php script and specifically targets the page parameter, creating a pathway for remote attackers to manipulate the underlying database through maliciously crafted SQL commands. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization mechanisms that fail to properly escape or filter user-supplied data before incorporating it into database queries. This allows an attacker to inject arbitrary SQL code that executes with the privileges of the web application's database user, potentially leading to complete database compromise and unauthorized access to sensitive information. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-89, which specifically addresses SQL injection flaws, and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190, which covers exploiting vulnerabilities in web applications to gain unauthorized access to backend systems.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker submits a malicious value through the page parameter in the index.php script. Without proper input validation, the application directly incorporates this parameter into SQL query construction, enabling attackers to manipulate the query execution flow. The attacker can leverage this weakness to perform unauthorized database operations such as data extraction, modification, or deletion, potentially gaining access to user credentials, personal information, or system configuration details. The impact extends beyond simple data theft as attackers may escalate privileges or use the compromised system as a foothold for further attacks within the network infrastructure. The vulnerability demonstrates poor security coding practices where user input is treated as trusted without proper sanitization, making it particularly dangerous in web applications that handle sensitive data.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability creates significant risk for organizations deploying MxBB Portal 2.7.3, as it provides remote attackers with a straightforward method to compromise database integrity and confidentiality. The attack surface is broad since the page parameter is commonly used in web applications for navigation and content delivery, making this vulnerability particularly attractive to automated scanning tools and opportunistic attackers. Organizations may face regulatory compliance violations, data breaches, and reputational damage if this vulnerability is exploited successfully. The impact is further amplified by the fact that the vulnerability affects the core application functionality, potentially rendering the entire portal system unusable or compromised. Security teams must consider the potential for lateral movement within networks if database credentials are compromised, as attackers often use database access as a stepping stone to broader network infiltration.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2008-2477 should focus on immediate patching of the MxBB Portal to version 2.7.4 or later, which contains the necessary fixes for the SQL injection vulnerability. Organizations should implement proper input validation and sanitization measures, including parameterized queries or prepared statements, to prevent direct injection of user-supplied data into database operations. Web application firewalls can provide additional protection by monitoring and filtering suspicious SQL patterns in incoming requests. Regular security assessments and code reviews should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other application components. Access controls should be implemented to limit database user privileges, ensuring that web applications operate with minimal required permissions. Network segmentation and monitoring solutions should be deployed to detect and respond to potential exploitation attempts. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of keeping all web applications updated with the latest security patches and following secure coding practices as outlined in industry standards such as OWASP Top Ten and NIST cybersecurity frameworks.