CVE-2008-4202 in LinksCaffePRO
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in index.php in Gonafish LinksCaffePRO 4.5 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the idd parameter in a deadlink action.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/04/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-4202 represents a critical SQL injection flaw within Gonafish LinksCaffePRO 4.5 software, specifically targeting the index.php script. This vulnerability manifests through the improper handling of user input in the idd parameter during deadlink actions, creating an exploitable entry point for remote attackers. The flaw resides in the application's failure to adequately sanitize or validate input data before incorporating it into SQL query constructions, thereby enabling malicious actors to manipulate database operations through crafted input sequences.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability follows the classic SQL injection pattern where the idd parameter in the deadlink action is directly concatenated into SQL query strings without proper input validation or parameterization. When an attacker submits malicious input through this parameter, the application processes the input without sufficient sanitization, allowing SQL commands embedded within the input to be executed by the underlying database engine. This occurs because the software employs dynamic query building techniques that concatenate user-supplied data directly into SQL statements rather than utilizing prepared statements or parameterized queries.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability presents severe implications for system security and data integrity. Remote attackers can leverage this flaw to execute arbitrary SQL commands, potentially gaining unauthorized access to sensitive database information, modifying or deleting records, and even escalating privileges within the database environment. The impact extends beyond simple data theft as attackers may be able to extract complete database schemas, user credentials, and other confidential information stored within the application's database backend. The remote nature of the attack means that exploitation can occur from any location without requiring physical access to the system infrastructure.
The vulnerability aligns with CWE-89, which specifically addresses SQL injection weaknesses in software applications, and demonstrates characteristics consistent with the attack patterns documented in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under the technique of "Querying Databases" and "SQL Injection" tactics. This classification indicates that the vulnerability represents a fundamental flaw in input validation and data handling practices that violates industry security standards for secure coding practices. Organizations utilizing this software version face significant risk exposure as the vulnerability can be exploited without requiring specialized knowledge beyond basic SQL injection techniques, making it particularly dangerous in environments where automated scanning tools might identify and exploit such flaws.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate implementation of proper input validation and parameterized query construction techniques. The most effective remediation involves replacing dynamic SQL query building with prepared statements or parameterized queries that separate user input from SQL command structure. Additionally, implementing proper input sanitization measures, including character set validation and length restrictions on the idd parameter, can significantly reduce exploitation potential. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems to monitor for suspicious SQL injection patterns, while maintaining regular security assessments and code reviews to identify similar vulnerabilities within the application codebase.