CVE-2008-4145 in Addalink
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in user_read_links.php in Addalink 1.0 beta 4 and earlier, when magic_quotes_gpc is disabled, allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the category_id parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/04/2024
The vulnerability described in CVE-2008-4145 represents a critical sql injection flaw within the addalink content management system version 1.0 beta 4 and earlier. This vulnerability specifically targets the user_read_links.php script which processes user requests for reading links within specific categories. The flaw emerges when the php configuration parameter magic_quotes_gpc is disabled, creating an environment where user input is not automatically escaped and sanitized before being incorporated into database queries.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through manipulation of the category_id parameter which is directly passed to sql queries without proper input validation or sanitization. When magic_quotes_gpc is disabled, the application fails to escape special sql characters in user-supplied input, allowing attackers to inject malicious sql code that gets executed by the database server. This creates a direct pathway for attackers to bypass authentication mechanisms, extract sensitive data, modify database contents, or even gain complete control over the database system.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft, as it provides attackers with the ability to perform privilege escalation and maintain persistent access to the affected system. The vulnerability affects all installations where addalink is deployed with magic_quotes_gpc disabled, which was common in many php environments during that time period. Attackers can leverage this flaw to execute arbitrary sql commands, potentially leading to complete system compromise and data breaches. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it requires minimal user interaction to exploit and can be automated through various attack tools.
Security mitigations for this vulnerability involve multiple layers of defense including immediate patching of the addalink application to version 1.0 beta 5 or later which contains the necessary input validation fixes. Additionally, administrators should ensure that magic_quotes_gpc is enabled on all php installations, though this is considered a temporary measure as it has been deprecated in newer php versions. The recommended approach involves implementing proper input validation and parameterized queries to prevent sql injection attacks. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls and database activity monitoring to detect and prevent exploitation attempts. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-89 sql injection and can be categorized under ATT&CK technique T1190 for exploitation of vulnerabilities in web applications, highlighting the importance of proper input sanitization and secure coding practices in preventing such attacks.