CVE-2008-3719 in Affiliate Directory
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in directory.php in SFS Affiliate Directory allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the id parameter in a deadlink action.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/03/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-3719 represents a critical sql injection flaw within the SFS Affiliate Directory application's directory.php script. This weakness specifically manifests when processing the id parameter during a deadlink action, creating an exploitable entry point that allows remote attackers to manipulate database queries. The vulnerability falls under the category of insecure input handling and demonstrates a classic sql injection attack vector that has been documented in numerous security assessments over the years. The affected application fails to properly sanitize or validate user-supplied input before incorporating it into database queries, thereby exposing the underlying database system to unauthorized command execution.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the application's failure to employ proper parameterized queries or input sanitization mechanisms when processing the id parameter. When a user submits a request containing a malicious id value through the deadlink action, the application directly incorporates this unvalidated input into sql statements without appropriate escaping or filtering. This creates a scenario where attackers can craft malicious sql payloads that bypass authentication mechanisms and execute arbitrary database commands. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it allows for complete database compromise, potentially enabling attackers to extract sensitive information, modify database contents, or even escalate privileges within the affected system. This flaw aligns with CWE-89 which specifically addresses sql injection vulnerabilities where untrusted data is used in sql commands without proper validation or sanitization.
The operational impact of CVE-2008-3719 extends beyond simple data theft, as it provides attackers with comprehensive database access capabilities that can lead to complete system compromise. Remote attackers can leverage this vulnerability to perform unauthorized data manipulation, including but not limited to deleting critical records, modifying user credentials, or extracting confidential information stored within the affiliate directory database. The vulnerability's remote exploitability means that attackers do not require physical access to the system or network privileges to carry out attacks, making it particularly dangerous for web applications. Organizations using the SFS Affiliate Directory software face significant risks including data breaches, service disruption, and potential regulatory compliance violations that could result in financial penalties and reputational damage. This vulnerability type is commonly referenced in ATT&CK framework under the technique T1190 for exploit public-facing application and T1071.004 for application layer protocol web protocols.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2008-3719 require immediate implementation of input validation and parameterized query usage within the affected application. System administrators should implement proper input sanitization techniques that validate and filter all user-supplied data before processing, particularly focusing on sql reserved words and special characters that could indicate malicious intent. The most effective remediation involves transitioning from dynamic sql query construction to parameterized queries or prepared statements that separate sql code from data. Additionally, implementing proper access controls and database user permissions can limit the damage that can be accomplished even if an attacker successfully exploits the vulnerability. Regular security assessments and code reviews should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities within the application's codebase, as sql injection flaws often occur in multiple locations throughout complex applications. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems to monitor for suspicious sql injection patterns and prevent exploitation attempts before they can succeed.