CVE-2008-3765 in Quick Poll Script
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in code.php in Quick Poll Script allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the id parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/11/2024
The CVE-2008-3765 vulnerability represents a critical sql injection flaw within the quick poll script's code.php component that enables remote attackers to execute arbitrary sql commands through manipulation of the id parameter. This vulnerability resides in the input validation mechanisms of the web application, specifically where user-supplied data is directly incorporated into sql query construction without proper sanitization or parameterization. The flaw manifests when the application fails to adequately filter or escape special sql characters and keywords that could alter the intended query structure, creating an attack vector that allows malicious actors to inject their own sql commands into the backend database operations.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability aligns with common sql injection patterns that fall under the weakness classification of cwe-89, which specifically addresses improper neutralization of special elements used in sql commands. The id parameter serves as the primary attack vector where an attacker can craft malicious input that bypasses normal input validation checks and directly influences the sql query execution flow. When the application processes the id parameter without proper input sanitization, it creates a condition where sql commands intended for legitimate database operations become corrupted by attacker-controlled sql fragments that execute with the privileges of the database user account associated with the web application.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft or manipulation to encompass complete system compromise and potential lateral movement within network environments. Remote attackers can leverage this vulnerability to extract sensitive information from the database, modify or delete critical records, and potentially escalate privileges to gain administrative access to the underlying database system. The attack surface is particularly concerning as it allows unauthorized users to perform actions that should only be available to authenticated administrators, potentially leading to complete system takeover. This vulnerability also aligns with attack techniques documented in the attack pattern taxonomy under the category of sql injection attacks that target web applications and database interfaces.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2008-3765 should prioritize immediate implementation of parameterized queries or prepared statements to ensure that user input is properly separated from sql command structure. The application should implement strict input validation routines that filter out or escape special sql characters including single quotes, semicolons, and sql comment markers. Additionally, database access controls should be implemented to limit the privileges of the web application's database user account, ensuring that even if an attacker successfully exploits the vulnerability, their capabilities remain restricted. Regular security assessments and code reviews should be conducted to identify similar input validation weaknesses throughout the application codebase, while implementing web application firewalls to detect and block suspicious sql injection attempts. The remediation process should also include proper error handling that prevents information leakage about the database structure and sql query execution, as such information can aid attackers in crafting more sophisticated attacks against the same or related vulnerabilities.