CVE-2008-3025 in plx Ad Trader
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in ad.php in plx Ad Trader 3.2 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the adid parameter in a redir action.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/31/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-3025 represents a critical SQL injection flaw within the plx Ad Trader 3.2 web application, specifically affecting the ad.php script. This vulnerability manifests when the application processes the adid parameter within a redir action, creating an exploitable condition that enables remote attackers to inject malicious SQL code into the database query execution flow. The flaw stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization mechanisms that fail to properly escape or filter user-supplied data before incorporating it into database queries, thereby allowing attackers to manipulate the underlying SQL structure and potentially gain unauthorized access to sensitive information.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through the manipulation of the adid parameter in the redir action, where an attacker can craft malicious input that alters the intended SQL query execution. When the application processes this parameter without proper sanitization, the injected SQL commands are executed within the database context, potentially allowing attackers to extract, modify, or delete database records. This type of vulnerability falls under the CWE-89 category of SQL Injection, which is classified as a high-risk vulnerability due to its potential for data breach and system compromise. The attack vector is particularly concerning as it requires no authentication and can be executed remotely, making it accessible to any attacker with knowledge of the target application's URL structure.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft, as successful exploitation can lead to complete database compromise and potential system infiltration. Attackers may leverage this vulnerability to escalate privileges, access administrative functions, or extract sensitive user information including personal details, login credentials, and business data. The plx Ad Trader application's reliance on database queries for ad redirection functionality makes it particularly susceptible to this type of attack, as the redir action typically involves database lookups to determine proper redirection paths. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to T1190 - Exploit Public-Facing Application, highlighting the threat of attackers targeting web applications with insufficient input validation controls.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate implementation of proper input validation and parameterized queries to prevent SQL injection attacks. Organizations should implement proper input sanitization techniques that filter or escape special characters in user-supplied data, particularly when incorporating values into database queries. The recommended approach involves using prepared statements or parameterized queries that separate SQL command structure from data, ensuring that user input cannot alter the intended query execution flow. Additionally, implementing web application firewalls, input validation layers, and regular security assessments can help prevent exploitation attempts. The vulnerability also underscores the importance of keeping web applications updated with security patches, as this specific flaw was likely addressed in subsequent versions of the plx Ad Trader platform through proper code review and security hardening measures.