CVE-2008-3785 in MiaCMS
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple SQL injection vulnerabilities in the com_content component in MiaCMS 4.6.5 allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the id parameter in a (1) view, (2) category, or (3) blogsection action to index.php.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/03/2024
The vulnerability described in CVE-2008-3785 represents a critical SQL injection flaw within the com_content component of MiaCMS version 4.6.5. This vulnerability exposes the content management system to remote code execution attacks through improper input validation mechanisms. The flaw specifically affects the id parameter across three distinct actions within the index.php file, creating multiple attack vectors for malicious actors seeking to compromise the system. The vulnerability stems from the application's failure to properly sanitize user input before incorporating it into SQL query constructs, allowing attackers to manipulate database operations through crafted malicious input sequences.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-89, which categorizes SQL injection as a fundamental weakness in application security. Attackers can exploit this flaw by submitting malicious payloads through the id parameter when accessing the view, category, or blogsection actions. The vulnerability operates by concatenating user-supplied input directly into SQL query strings without appropriate sanitization or parameterization, enabling attackers to inject arbitrary SQL commands that execute with the privileges of the database user. This type of injection can potentially lead to complete database compromise, data exfiltration, and unauthorized access to sensitive information stored within the MiaCMS installation.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft, as it provides attackers with the capability to escalate privileges and execute arbitrary code on the affected system. The remote nature of the exploit means that attackers do not require physical access or local system credentials to leverage the vulnerability, making it particularly dangerous for publicly accessible web applications. Successful exploitation could result in complete system compromise, allowing attackers to modify content, delete database records, create new user accounts, or establish backdoors for persistent access. The vulnerability affects the core content management functionality, potentially disrupting service availability and compromising the integrity of all content managed through the MiaCMS platform.
Security mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on implementing proper input validation and parameterized queries to prevent SQL injection attacks. The recommended approach involves updating to a patched version of MiaCMS that addresses this specific vulnerability, as the original version 4.6.5 contains unpatched code that remains susceptible to exploitation. Organizations should also implement web application firewalls to detect and block malicious SQL injection attempts, while applying proper input sanitization techniques that validate and filter all user-supplied data before processing. Additionally, following the principle of least privilege for database connections and implementing comprehensive monitoring systems can help detect unauthorized access attempts and provide early warning of potential exploitation activities. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of maintaining up-to-date security patches and implementing robust application security practices to prevent exploitation of known vulnerabilities.