CVE-2008-4148 in Mailhandler
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in the Mailhandler module 5.x before 5.x-1.4 and 6.x before 6.x-1.4, a module for Drupal, allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via unspecified vectors, related to composing queries without using the Drupal database API.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/09/2018
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-4148 represents a critical SQL injection flaw within the Mailhandler module for Drupal platforms, affecting versions 5.x prior to 5.x-1.4 and 6.x prior to 6.x-1.4. This security weakness resides in the module's failure to properly sanitize user input when constructing database queries, creating an avenue for malicious actors to manipulate the underlying database system. The vulnerability specifically impacts the module's handling of data during the email processing workflow where user-supplied information is directly incorporated into SQL statements without appropriate escaping or parameterization.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the Mailhandler module's deviation from Drupal's established database abstraction layer and security protocols. When the module processes incoming email data, it constructs SQL queries using string concatenation or direct input incorporation rather than employing Drupal's secure database API functions such as db_query() or db_select() with proper parameter binding. This approach violates fundamental security principles outlined in CWE-89 which classifies SQL injection as a weakness where untrusted data is embedded directly into SQL command strings. The vulnerability allows attackers to inject malicious SQL code through unspecified vectors within the email composition process, potentially enabling full database compromise.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft, as remote attackers can execute arbitrary SQL commands on the affected Drupal site's database server. Successful exploitation could result in complete database enumeration, data modification or deletion, privilege escalation, and potentially system compromise if the database account has elevated permissions. Attackers might leverage this vulnerability to extract sensitive user credentials, personal information, or other confidential data stored within the Drupal database. The remote nature of the attack means that no local system access is required, making the vulnerability particularly dangerous for publicly accessible web applications. This aligns with ATT&CK technique T1071.004 which covers application layer protocol use for command and control communications.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2008-4148 require immediate patching of the affected Mailhandler module to versions 5.x-1.4 or 6.x-1.4 respectively, which contain the necessary security fixes. Organizations should also implement input validation and sanitization measures, ensuring all user-supplied data undergoes proper escaping before database insertion. The Drupal security team recommends verifying that all database queries utilize the official Drupal database API functions rather than manual SQL construction. Additional defensive measures include implementing web application firewalls, database activity monitoring, and regular security audits to detect anomalous database access patterns. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of adhering to secure coding practices and utilizing established security frameworks as outlined in OWASP Top Ten and NIST cybersecurity guidelines for preventing injection vulnerabilities.