CVE-2008-4172 in Cars-vehicles Script
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in page.php in Cars & Vehicle (aka Cars-Vehicle Script) allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the lnkid parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/15/2025
The CVE-2008-4172 vulnerability represents a critical sql injection flaw within the Cars & Vehicle script application, specifically targeting the page.php component. This vulnerability manifests through the lnkid parameter which serves as an entry point for malicious sql commands. The flaw allows remote attackers to bypass authentication mechanisms and directly manipulate the underlying database through carefully crafted input sequences. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and improper sql query construction within the application's backend processing logic. According to CWE-89, this corresponds to an improper neutralization of special elements used in sql commands, which is a fundamental weakness in database security architecture.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when user-supplied input from the lnkid parameter is directly incorporated into sql queries without proper sanitization or parameterization. Attackers can construct malicious sql payloads that, when executed, can retrieve, modify, or delete sensitive database records. The impact extends beyond simple data theft to potential full system compromise, as successful exploitation can lead to unauthorized administrative access. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it operates at the database layer, allowing attackers to bypass application-level security controls and directly interact with the sql engine.
Operationally, this vulnerability creates significant risk for automotive dealership and vehicle management systems that rely on the Cars & Vehicle script. Remote attackers can exploit this weakness to access customer information, vehicle records, pricing data, and potentially financial details stored within the database. The attack surface is broad as the vulnerability affects any system using the compromised script version, making it a prime target for automated scanning tools. The exploitation process typically involves sending crafted http requests with malicious lnkid parameter values that manipulate the sql execution flow. This vulnerability aligns with attack patterns documented in the mitre ATT&CK framework under the database access and credential access domains, specifically targeting the credential access tactic.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2008-4172 require immediate implementation of input validation and parameterized queries throughout the application codebase. The primary defense mechanism involves implementing proper sql parameterization techniques that separate sql commands from data inputs, thereby preventing malicious code injection. Organizations should also deploy web application firewalls and input sanitization filters to detect and block suspicious parameter values. Regular security audits and code reviews should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other components. Additionally, implementing the principle of least privilege for database accounts and maintaining up-to-date security patches for all application components are essential defensive measures. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of secure coding practices and proper input handling as outlined in owasp top ten security risks and the corresponding mitigation strategies recommended by nist cybersecurity framework.