CVE-2008-4091 in Web Directory Script
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in index.php in Web Directory Script 1.5.3 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the site parameter in an open action.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/03/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-4091 represents a critical sql injection flaw within the web directory script version 1.5.3, specifically affecting the index.php file during open action operations. This vulnerability exposes the application to remote code execution risks when attackers manipulate the site parameter through crafted input. The flaw stems from insufficient input validation and sanitization mechanisms that fail to properly escape or filter user-supplied data before incorporating it into sql queries. According to the common weakness enumeration framework, this vulnerability maps directly to cwe-89, which categorizes sql injection as a persistent security weakness that allows attackers to manipulate database operations through malicious input. The attack vector operates through web-based exploitation where remote adversaries can inject malicious sql commands into the application's query execution flow by manipulating the site parameter during open actions. The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft, as successful exploitation can lead to complete database compromise, unauthorized access to sensitive information, and potential lateral movement within affected networks. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to execute arbitrary sql commands that may include data extraction, modification, or deletion operations, potentially resulting in full system compromise.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability demonstrates a classic sql injection attack pattern where the application directly concatenates user input into sql statements without proper parameterization or input sanitization. When the site parameter is processed through the open action in index.php, the application fails to implement adequate input validation measures that would prevent malicious sql syntax from being executed. This vulnerability aligns with the attack technique described in the mitre attack framework under the category of sql injection, specifically targeting web applications that lack proper input filtering mechanisms. The flaw represents a failure in the application's defensive programming practices, where dynamic sql construction occurs without proper use of prepared statements or parameterized queries that would isolate user input from sql command execution. Security professionals should note that this vulnerability affects legacy web directory applications and highlights the importance of input validation at all entry points where user data influences database operations.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2008-4091 require immediate implementation of proper input validation and sanitization measures within the web directory script. The most effective remediation involves implementing parameterized queries or prepared statements that separate sql command structure from user data, thereby preventing malicious input from altering the intended sql execution flow. Organizations should also implement proper input validation routines that filter or escape special sql characters from user-supplied parameters including the site parameter in this case. Additional protective measures include implementing web application firewalls that can detect and block sql injection attempts, conducting regular security code reviews to identify similar vulnerabilities, and applying the latest security patches provided by the software vendor. The vulnerability's exploitation potential necessitates immediate attention from system administrators, as the combination of remote execution capability and the ability to manipulate database operations creates a severe risk to information security. Regular monitoring of application logs for suspicious sql query patterns and implementing proper access controls to limit database privileges can further reduce the impact of potential exploitation attempts. Given the age of the affected software version, organizations should consider migrating to supported web directory solutions that incorporate modern security practices and proper input validation mechanisms to prevent similar vulnerabilities from occurring in future deployments.