CVE-2008-3848 in Z-Breaknews
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in single.php in Z-Breaknews 2.0 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the id parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/03/2024
The CVE-2008-3848 vulnerability represents a critical sql injection flaw within the Z-Breaknews 2.0 content management system that fundamentally compromises database security through improper input validation. This vulnerability specifically targets the single php file which processes user requests for individual news articles, making it a prime target for attackers seeking to exploit the system's database layer. The flaw occurs when the application fails to properly sanitize or escape user-supplied input passed through the id parameter, creating an avenue for malicious actors to inject arbitrary sql commands directly into the database query execution chain.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the application's reliance on user input without adequate sanitization measures, directly violating established security principles and best practices for input validation. When an attacker submits a malicious value through the id parameter, the application incorporates this unvalidated input directly into sql queries without proper escaping or parameterization, allowing the attacker to manipulate the intended query structure and execute unauthorized database operations. This type of vulnerability falls under the common weakness enumeration CWE-89 which specifically addresses sql injection vulnerabilities, and aligns with the attack pattern identified in the attack tree framework where adversaries exploit insufficient input validation to gain unauthorized access to backend systems.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends far beyond simple data theft, as it provides attackers with the capability to execute arbitrary database commands including but not limited to data extraction, modification, deletion, or even privilege escalation within the database environment. An attacker could potentially gain access to sensitive user information, administrative credentials, or other confidential data stored within the application's database, while also being able to manipulate content or disrupt service availability. This vulnerability also creates potential for persistent threats where attackers might establish backdoors or maintain long-term access to the compromised system, making it particularly dangerous for organizations relying on the affected software for content management.
The exploitation of this vulnerability requires minimal technical sophistication and can be accomplished through standard sql injection techniques, making it accessible to attackers with basic knowledge of web application security principles. Security professionals should recognize this as a critical vulnerability requiring immediate attention and remediation, particularly given the age of the affected software and the likelihood of widespread exploitation. Organizations should implement comprehensive mitigation strategies including input validation, parameterized queries, and proper database access controls to prevent similar vulnerabilities from occurring in other applications. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning to identify and remediate similar flaws in legacy systems, as the affected software version predates many modern security standards and best practices that would have prevented such issues through proper design and implementation approaches.