CVE-2008-4570 in Real-estate-scripts
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in index.php in Real Estate Classifieds allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the cat parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/07/2024
The CVE-2008-4570 vulnerability represents a critical sql injection flaw in the Real Estate Classifieds web application that affects the index.php script. This vulnerability specifically targets the cat parameter, which serves as an entry point for malicious sql commands. The flaw allows remote attackers to manipulate database queries by injecting malicious sql code through the cat parameter, potentially gaining unauthorized access to sensitive data or executing arbitrary commands on the underlying database server. The vulnerability falls under the common weakness enumeration CWE-89 which specifically addresses sql injection vulnerabilities where untrusted input is directly incorporated into sql commands without proper sanitization or parameterization.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when the application fails to properly validate or sanitize user input received through the cat parameter in the index.php file. When legitimate users provide input through this parameter, the application directly incorporates it into sql queries without adequate escaping or parameterization mechanisms. This creates an environment where attackers can craft malicious input that alters the intended sql query execution flow. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it allows attackers to bypass authentication mechanisms, extract confidential information, modify database records, or even execute system commands depending on the database server configuration and the privileges of the database user account.
The operational impact of CVE-2008-4570 extends beyond simple data theft, as it can enable complete database compromise and potential system infiltration. Attackers leveraging this vulnerability can access customer information, property listings, user credentials, and other sensitive business data stored in the database. The vulnerability also poses risks to business continuity and regulatory compliance, particularly in industries subject to data protection regulations such as gdpr or hipaa. Organizations using the Real Estate Classifieds application may face significant financial losses, reputational damage, and potential legal consequences if this vulnerability is exploited. The remote nature of the attack means that threat actors can exploit the flaw from anywhere on the internet without requiring physical access to the target system.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2008-4570 should focus on implementing proper input validation and parameterized queries to prevent sql injection attacks. Organizations should immediately apply the vendor-supplied patches or updates that address this specific vulnerability. The recommended approach involves using prepared statements or parameterized queries when interacting with database systems, ensuring that user input is properly escaped or sanitized before being incorporated into sql commands. Additionally, implementing web application firewalls and input validation rules can provide additional layers of protection. Regular security assessments and code reviews should be conducted to identify and remediate similar vulnerabilities throughout the application codebase. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of following secure coding practices and adhering to industry standards such as owasp top ten and iso 27001 security frameworks to prevent sql injection attacks. Network segmentation and database access controls should be implemented to limit the potential damage from successful exploitation attempts.