CVE-2008-3382 in MojoClassifieds
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in mojoClassified.cgi in MojoClassifieds 2.0 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the cat_a parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/02/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-3382 represents a critical sql injection flaw in the mojoClassifieds 2.0 web application, specifically within the mojoClassified.cgi script. This vulnerability resides in the handling of user input through the cat_a parameter, which is processed without adequate sanitization or validation mechanisms. The flaw enables remote attackers to inject malicious sql commands directly into the application's database query execution flow, potentially compromising the entire backend database system. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-89, which specifically addresses sql injection weaknesses in software applications. This type of vulnerability falls squarely within the attack pattern category of CWE-116, as it involves the improper handling of input data that leads to execution of unintended commands. The exploitation of this vulnerability allows attackers to manipulate the database through crafted sql payloads that are directly executed by the application's backend sql engine.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the application's failure to properly escape or validate user-supplied input before incorporating it into sql queries. When the cat_a parameter is processed by mojoClassified.cgi, the input is directly concatenated into sql statements without appropriate parameterization or input filtering mechanisms. This lack of input validation creates an environment where malicious actors can inject sql commands that bypass normal application logic and gain unauthorized access to database operations. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it allows for arbitrary sql command execution, which can include data extraction, modification, deletion, or even privilege escalation within the database. Attackers can leverage this weakness to extract sensitive information from the database, modify existing records, or potentially gain administrative access to the database system itself.
The operational impact of CVE-2008-3382 extends beyond simple data compromise, as it represents a fundamental breakdown in the application's security architecture. Remote attackers can exploit this vulnerability without requiring any local access or authentication credentials, making it particularly attractive for automated attack campaigns. The consequences include potential data loss, data corruption, unauthorized access to classified information, and possible system compromise that could affect the entire web infrastructure. Organizations running vulnerable versions of mojoClassifieds face significant risk of unauthorized data access and potential regulatory violations if sensitive information is compromised. The vulnerability also creates opportunities for attackers to establish persistent access through database-level backdoors or to escalate privileges within the database environment. This type of vulnerability directly impacts the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the affected systems, as outlined in the attack pattern taxonomy under ATT&CK technique T1071.004 for application layer protocol manipulation.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability must address both immediate remediation and long-term architectural improvements to prevent similar issues. The most effective immediate solution involves implementing proper input validation and parameterized queries to ensure that user input cannot be interpreted as sql commands. Organizations should apply the vendor-provided patch or upgrade to a non-vulnerable version of mojoClassifieds as soon as possible. Additionally, implementing web application firewalls and input sanitization mechanisms can provide additional layers of protection. The remediation process should include thorough code review to identify other potential sql injection vulnerabilities within the same application or related systems. Security monitoring should be enhanced to detect unusual database access patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. Organizations should also consider implementing database activity monitoring and access controls to limit the potential damage from successful exploitation attempts. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of proper input validation and the application of secure coding practices, particularly in web applications that interact with database systems.