CVE-2008-3266 in Hotel Reservation System Multi
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in picture_pic_bv.asp in SoftAcid Hotel Reservation System (HRS) Multi allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the key parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/02/2024
The CVE-2008-3266 vulnerability represents a critical sql injection flaw within the SoftAcid Hotel Reservation System Multi platform, specifically affecting the picture_pic_bv.asp component. This vulnerability resides in the handling of user-supplied input through the key parameter, creating a pathway for malicious actors to manipulate database queries and execute unauthorized commands. The affected system operates as a hotel reservation management solution, making it a prime target for attackers seeking to compromise hospitality industry data systems. The vulnerability's classification as a remote code execution vector means that attackers can exploit this flaw without requiring physical access to the system, potentially affecting multiple hotel reservation databases simultaneously.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization within the picture_pic_bv.asp script. When the system processes the key parameter, it fails to properly escape or filter user-provided data before incorporating it into sql queries. This allows attackers to inject malicious sql payloads that can manipulate the database structure, extract sensitive information, modify reservation records, or even gain administrative access to the underlying database system. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-89, which categorizes sql injection as a fundamental weakness in data handling and query construction. Attackers can leverage this flaw to perform operations such as union-based queries, time-based blind injections, or direct command execution depending on the database backend and system configuration.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft, as it can severely compromise the integrity and availability of hotel reservation systems. Attackers can manipulate booking records, alter room availability, modify pricing structures, or delete critical reservation data, potentially causing significant financial losses and operational disruptions for hospitality businesses. The remote nature of the exploit means that threat actors can target multiple systems from anywhere on the internet, making this vulnerability particularly dangerous for large hotel chains or reservation platforms that rely on centralized databases. This vulnerability also poses risks to customer privacy as personal reservation data, payment information, and guest details stored in the database become accessible to unauthorized parties. The attack surface is further expanded due to the nature of hotel reservation systems, which often integrate with various third-party services, potentially allowing attackers to escalate their access beyond the initial compromised system.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2008-3266 should prioritize immediate patching of the affected SoftAcid Hotel Reservation System Multi platform, as this represents the most effective solution to eliminate the vulnerability. Organizations should implement proper input validation and parameterized queries to prevent sql injection attacks, following secure coding practices that align with industry standards such as those recommended by the owasp foundation. Database access controls should be strengthened through the principle of least privilege, ensuring that application accounts have minimal necessary permissions to reduce potential damage from successful exploitation. Network segmentation and intrusion detection systems can help identify and block suspicious sql injection attempts, while regular security assessments and penetration testing should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other components of the reservation system. Additionally, implementing web application firewalls and input sanitization mechanisms can provide additional layers of protection against sql injection attacks, particularly for legacy systems that may not receive regular updates or patches.