CVE-2008-2850 in TrailScout module
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in the TrailScout module 5.x before 5.x-1.4 for Drupal allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via unspecified cookies, related to improper use of the Drupal database API.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/12/2019
The CVE-2008-2850 vulnerability represents a critical sql injection flaw within the TrailScout module for Drupal version 5.x prior to 5.x-1.4. This vulnerability arises from improper handling of user input within the module's database interactions, creating a pathway for remote attackers to execute malicious sql commands. The vulnerability specifically manifests through unspecified cookie parameters that are not properly sanitized or validated before being incorporated into database queries. This type of vulnerability falls under the broader category of CWE-89 sql injection as defined by the common weakness enumeration, which classifies it as a fundamental flaw in application security where untrusted data is directly embedded into sql commands without proper sanitization.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability demonstrates a failure in proper database api usage within the Drupal framework. When the TrailScout module processes incoming cookie data, it fails to properly escape or parameterize the values before incorporating them into sql statements. This improper use of the database api creates an environment where attacker-controlled data can manipulate the sql query structure itself rather than simply being treated as literal data. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it operates at the database layer, allowing attackers to potentially extract sensitive information, modify database contents, or even escalate privileges within the application environment. According to the mitre attack framework, this vulnerability aligns with the initial access and execution tactics where attackers can leverage sql injection to gain unauthorized access to backend database systems.
The operational impact of CVE-2008-2850 extends beyond simple data theft, as it provides attackers with the capability to manipulate the entire application database. Remote execution of arbitrary sql commands means that attackers could potentially delete critical data, modify user accounts, or even inject malicious code that could propagate throughout the system. The vulnerability's exploitation requires only access to the affected web application and the ability to manipulate cookie values, making it particularly dangerous in environments where cookies are used for session management or user preferences. Organizations running vulnerable versions of the TrailScout module face significant risk of data compromise and system integrity violations. The attack surface is further expanded because cookies are automatically transmitted by browsers, meaning that even casual web browsing could potentially trigger this vulnerability. Security professionals should note that this vulnerability represents a classic example of how improper input validation at the application layer can lead to database-level compromise, emphasizing the importance of following secure coding practices and proper database api usage.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2008-2850 focus primarily on upgrading to the patched version of the TrailScout module, specifically version 5.x-1.4 or later. Organizations should immediately implement this upgrade as the primary defense mechanism against exploitation. Additionally, administrators should consider implementing web application firewalls that can detect and block suspicious sql injection patterns in cookie data. The vulnerability's remediation aligns with the principle of least privilege and input validation as outlined in various security frameworks including nist cybersecurity framework and iso 27001 standards. Regular security audits and code reviews should emphasize proper database api usage patterns, ensuring that all user inputs are properly escaped or parameterized before database interaction. Organizations should also implement monitoring systems to detect unusual database query patterns that might indicate sql injection attempts, as these systems can provide early warning of potential exploitation attempts. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of keeping content management systems and their modules updated with the latest security patches, as unpatched vulnerabilities represent one of the most common attack vectors in web application security.