CVE-2008-5293 in WebStudio eHotel
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in index.php in WebStudio eHotel allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the pageid parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/11/2024
The CVE-2008-5293 vulnerability represents a critical sql injection flaw within the webstudio ehotel application's index.php script. This vulnerability specifically targets the pageid parameter, which serves as an entry point for malicious actors to inject arbitrary sql commands into the application's database layer. The flaw stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization practices within the web application's codebase, allowing attackers to manipulate the sql query execution flow by manipulating the pageid parameter value.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when the application fails to properly escape or validate user-supplied input before incorporating it into sql queries. When an attacker submits malicious sql code through the pageid parameter, the application processes this input directly without proper sanitization, resulting in the execution of unintended sql commands on the underlying database server. This type of vulnerability falls under the common weakness enumeration category CWE-89, which specifically addresses sql injection flaws in software applications.
The operational impact of CVE-2008-5293 extends beyond simple data retrieval, as successful exploitation can enable attackers to perform complete database compromise operations. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to extract sensitive information including user credentials, personal data, and business-critical records stored within the hotel management system. Additionally, the vulnerability may allow for data modification, deletion, or even complete database corruption, potentially leading to service disruption and unauthorized access to the application's administrative functions. The attack vector remains particularly dangerous due to its remote nature, enabling exploitation from any location without requiring physical access to the system infrastructure.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on implementing proper input validation and parameterized queries throughout the application codebase. The recommended approach involves adopting prepared statements or parameterized queries that separate sql command structure from data input, effectively preventing malicious sql code injection. Additionally, implementing proper input sanitization routines, establishing proper access controls, and conducting regular security code reviews can significantly reduce the risk of similar vulnerabilities. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems to monitor for suspicious sql injection patterns. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of following secure coding practices and adhering to industry standards such as those outlined in the owasp top ten project, which consistently identifies sql injection as one of the most prevalent and dangerous web application security risks. This particular vulnerability aligns with attack techniques documented in the attack pattern taxonomy under the sql injection category, emphasizing the need for comprehensive defensive measures including proper database access controls and regular security assessments to prevent unauthorized data access and system compromise.