CVE-2008-4185 in webCMS Portal Edition
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in index.php in webCMS Portal Edition allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the id parameter in a documentos action, a different vector than CVE-2008-3213.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/03/2024
The vulnerability described in CVE-2008-4185 represents a critical SQL injection flaw within the webCMS Portal Edition software that exposes remote attackers to arbitrary code execution capabilities. This vulnerability specifically targets the index.php file and occurs when processing the id parameter within the documentos action, creating a pathway for malicious actors to manipulate database queries through crafted input. The flaw operates independently from CVE-2008-3213, indicating a distinct attack vector that requires separate mitigation strategies. The vulnerability falls under the Common Weakness Enumeration category of CWE-89, which specifically addresses SQL injection weaknesses in software applications. This classification places the vulnerability within the broader context of database security risks that can lead to complete system compromise when exploited properly.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization within the webCMS Portal Edition's web application layer. When the documentos action processes the id parameter without proper escaping or parameterization of user-supplied data, it allows attackers to inject malicious SQL code that gets executed against the underlying database system. The remote nature of this attack means that threat actors can exploit the vulnerability from external networks without requiring local system access or authentication credentials. This characteristic significantly increases the attack surface and potential impact of the vulnerability. The attack vector specifically leverages the way the application constructs SQL queries by directly concatenating user input into database commands rather than utilizing prepared statements or parameterized queries.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends far beyond simple data theft, as successful exploitation can enable attackers to gain complete control over the affected database system. Remote attackers can execute arbitrary SQL commands that may include data manipulation, data extraction, privilege escalation, and even system-level commands depending on the database configuration and permissions. The vulnerability's presence in the webCMS Portal Edition suggests potential compromise of all content managed through the portal, including sensitive user data, configuration information, and potentially system credentials. Organizations running this software version face significant risk of data breaches, service disruption, and potential regulatory compliance violations. The vulnerability's classification as a remote code execution threat means that attackers can potentially establish persistent access to the system, making it particularly dangerous for enterprise environments where data protection and system integrity are paramount.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2008-4185 must address both immediate remediation and long-term architectural improvements to prevent similar vulnerabilities. The primary solution involves implementing proper input validation and parameterized queries throughout the webCMS Portal Edition codebase, specifically within the index.php file and documentos action handling. Organizations should apply the vendor-provided security patches or upgrade to versions that have addressed this vulnerability. Additionally, implementing web application firewalls and input sanitization mechanisms can provide additional layers of protection against SQL injection attacks. The mitigation approach should align with the ATT&CK framework's methodology for defending against SQL injection techniques, particularly focusing on defensive measures related to input validation and query parameterization. Regular security assessments and code reviews should be conducted to identify and remediate similar vulnerabilities across the entire application stack, ensuring comprehensive protection against evolving attack vectors that may target the same class of weaknesses.