CVE-2008-2835 in igsuite
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in cgi-bin/igsuite in IGSuite 3.2.4 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the formid parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/29/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-2835 represents a critical SQL injection flaw within the IGSuite 3.2.4 web application, specifically affecting the cgi-bin/igsuite component. This issue resides in the formid parameter handling mechanism, which fails to properly validate or sanitize user input before incorporating it into database queries. The vulnerability operates at the application layer and presents a significant risk to systems utilizing this particular version of IGSuite, which was widely deployed for enterprise content management and workflow automation purposes. The flaw enables remote attackers to manipulate database operations by injecting malicious SQL code through the vulnerable parameter, potentially leading to complete database compromise and unauthorized access to sensitive organizational data.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation practices within the IGSuite application code. When the formid parameter is processed, the application constructs SQL queries by directly concatenating user-supplied values without proper sanitization or parameterization. This design flaw aligns with CWE-89, which specifically addresses SQL injection vulnerabilities where untrusted data is incorporated into SQL commands without adequate escaping or validation. The vulnerability exists at the intersection of poor input handling and database query construction, creating an exploitable condition where attacker-controlled input can alter the intended execution flow of database operations. The cgi-bin/igsuite component likely serves as a gateway for various administrative and user interaction functions, making the compromise of this module particularly dangerous for enterprise environments.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft, encompassing complete system compromise and potential lateral movement within affected networks. Remote attackers can leverage this vulnerability to execute arbitrary SQL commands, potentially gaining access to user credentials, sensitive business data, financial records, and confidential communications stored within the database. The attack surface is particularly concerning for organizations using IGSuite for content management, as this could lead to unauthorized modification or deletion of critical documents and workflows. The vulnerability's remote exploitability means that attackers do not require physical access to the system, enabling them to compromise targets from anywhere on the internet. This characteristic places organizations at risk of data breaches, regulatory compliance violations, and significant business disruption. The vulnerability also aligns with ATT&CK technique T1071.004 for application layer protocol manipulation and T1190 for exploitation of remote services, making it a prime target for automated exploitation tools and advanced persistent threat actors.
Organizations affected by CVE-2008-2835 should implement immediate mitigations including input validation and parameterized query implementation to prevent further exploitation. The most effective immediate solution involves updating to a patched version of IGSuite, as the vendor would have addressed the underlying input sanitization issues. System administrators should also implement network-level protections such as web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems to monitor for exploitation attempts. Database access controls should be reviewed and restricted to minimize potential damage from successful attacks, while audit logging should be enhanced to detect unauthorized database access patterns. Security teams should conduct thorough vulnerability assessments to identify other potential SQL injection vulnerabilities within their application portfolio, as this flaw demonstrates poor security practices that may exist elsewhere in the system architecture. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of proper input validation and secure coding practices in preventing database-related attacks, with implications for compliance with security standards such as those outlined in the OWASP Top Ten and NIST cybersecurity frameworks.