CVE-2008-2767 in Absolute Poll Manager Xe
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in search.asp in Xigla Poll Manager XE allows remote authenticated users with administrator role privileges to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the orderby parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/19/2017
The CVE-2008-2767 vulnerability represents a critical sql injection flaw within the Xigla Poll Manager XE web application that specifically targets the search.asp component. This vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it requires only authenticated access with administrator privileges, making it exploitable by users who already have elevated rights within the system. The flaw manifests through the orderby parameter in the search.asp script, which fails to properly validate or sanitize user input before incorporating it into sql queries. This oversight creates a direct pathway for malicious actors to inject arbitrary sql commands into the backend database system.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability aligns with common sql injection attack patterns and can be categorized under CWE-89, which specifically addresses improper neutralization of special elements used in sql commands. The vulnerability operates by manipulating the orderby parameter to inject malicious sql syntax that bypasses normal input validation mechanisms. When an administrator accesses the search functionality with a crafted orderby value, the application processes this input without adequate sanitization, allowing the attacker to execute unauthorized database operations. This type of vulnerability falls within the ATT&CK framework under technique T1071.004 for application layer protocol manipulation and T1566 for credential access through valid accounts.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft or modification. An attacker with administrator privileges can leverage this flaw to gain complete control over the database backend, potentially leading to data exfiltration, unauthorized user account creation, system compromise, or even lateral movement within the network infrastructure. The vulnerability's remote execution capability means that attackers do not need physical access to the server, making it particularly concerning for web applications that are accessible over the internet. Organizations using Xigla Poll Manager XE face significant risk of unauthorized access to sensitive polling data, user information, and potentially other system resources that may be accessible through the compromised database connection.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2008-2767 should focus on implementing proper input validation and parameterized queries to prevent sql injection attacks. The most effective approach involves replacing dynamic sql construction with prepared statements or stored procedures that separate sql code from user input. Organizations should also implement the principle of least privilege by ensuring that administrative accounts are only granted necessary permissions and that regular security audits are conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other components. Additionally, input sanitization measures including proper escaping of special characters and validation of parameter values can help prevent exploitation of this vulnerability. The remediation process should include immediate patching of the affected software component and comprehensive security testing to ensure that similar vulnerabilities do not exist in other parts of the application stack.