CVE-2008-4882 in Autoresponder Hosting Script
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in tr.php in YourFreeWorld Autoresponder Hosting Script allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the id parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/10/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-4882 represents a critical SQL injection flaw within the YourFreeWorld Autoresponder Hosting Script, specifically affecting the tr.php component. This vulnerability resides in the handling of user-supplied input through the id parameter, creating a pathway for malicious actors to manipulate database queries and potentially gain unauthorized access to sensitive information. The flaw demonstrates a classic lack of proper input validation and sanitization, which is a fundamental principle in secure coding practices and aligns with CWE-89, which categorizes SQL injection as a persistent weakness in software applications.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker submits malicious SQL code through the id parameter in the tr.php script. The script fails to properly escape or validate the input before incorporating it into database queries, allowing the attacker to inject arbitrary SQL commands that execute within the database context. This type of injection can enable attackers to extract confidential data, modify database records, or even execute administrative commands on the underlying database system. The vulnerability operates at the application layer and can be classified under the ATT&CK framework as part of the Credential Access and Defense Evasion tactics, specifically leveraging the technique of SQL Injection.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft, as it can compromise the entire integrity of the hosting environment where the Autoresponder Script is deployed. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability could potentially gain access to user email accounts, personal information, and other sensitive data stored within the database. The consequences include potential data breaches, service disruption, and regulatory compliance violations that could result in significant financial and reputational damage to organizations using this vulnerable script. Organizations may face liability issues under data protection regulations such as GDPR or HIPAA if user data is compromised through such vulnerabilities.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2008-4882 require immediate implementation of input validation and parameterized queries to prevent malicious SQL code from being executed. The recommended approach involves implementing proper input sanitization techniques that filter out potentially harmful characters and sequences, combined with the use of prepared statements or parameterized queries that separate SQL logic from user data. Organizations should also conduct regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning to identify similar weaknesses in their software infrastructure. Additionally, applying the principle of least privilege by limiting database user permissions and implementing proper access controls can significantly reduce the potential impact of successful exploitation attempts. The vulnerability underscores the importance of adhering to secure coding standards and maintaining up-to-date security practices as outlined in industry frameworks such as the OWASP Top Ten and NIST cybersecurity guidelines.