CVE-2008-3755 in Classifieds
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in view.php in YourFreeWorld Classifieds Script allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the category parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/10/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-3755 represents a critical SQL injection flaw within the YourFreeWorld Classifieds Script, specifically affecting the view.php component. This security weakness resides in the handling of user-supplied input through the category parameter, which is processed without adequate sanitization or validation mechanisms. The vulnerability falls under the Common Weakness Enumeration category CWE-89, which specifically addresses SQL injection vulnerabilities where untrusted data is directly incorporated into SQL command strings without proper escaping or parameterization. Attackers can exploit this flaw by crafting malicious SQL commands within the category parameter, potentially gaining unauthorized access to the underlying database system.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the script's failure to properly sanitize or escape input data before incorporating it into database queries. When a user submits a value through the category parameter in view.php, the application directly appends this input to SQL statements without employing prepared statements, parameterized queries, or adequate input validation. This allows attackers to manipulate the SQL execution flow by injecting malicious SQL syntax that can alter the intended query behavior. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it enables remote code execution capabilities, allowing attackers to perform unauthorized database operations such as data retrieval, modification, or deletion, potentially leading to complete system compromise.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft, as it provides attackers with substantial control over the classifieds platform's database infrastructure. Successful exploitation could result in unauthorized access to sensitive user information, including personal details, contact information, and classified listings. The vulnerability's remote nature means that attackers do not require physical access to the system or local network privileges to exploit the flaw, making it particularly dangerous in internet-facing applications. According to the MITRE ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to techniques involving command and control communication and credential access, as attackers can leverage the SQL injection to extract database credentials and potentially escalate privileges within the system. The impact is amplified by the fact that classifieds platforms often contain valuable personal and business information that attackers can monetize through data breaches.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2008-3755 must address both immediate remediation and long-term security architecture improvements. The primary solution involves implementing proper input validation and parameterized queries throughout the application code, specifically ensuring that all user-supplied data is properly escaped or parameterized before database insertion. Security patches should be applied immediately to update the YourFreeWorld Classifieds Script to versions that address this vulnerability. Organizations should also implement web application firewalls to detect and block suspicious SQL injection patterns, while establishing comprehensive input sanitization routines that filter out potentially malicious SQL characters. The implementation of principle of least privilege access controls and database query monitoring can further reduce the impact of successful exploitation attempts. Additionally, regular security audits and penetration testing should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other components of the web application stack, ensuring that the system maintains robust defenses against evolving attack vectors.