CVE-2008-5599 in Teamworx Server
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in default.asp in Merlix Teamworx Server allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the password parameter (aka passwd field) in a login action. NOTE: some of these details are obtained from third party information.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/14/2024
The CVE-2008-5599 vulnerability represents a critical sql injection flaw in the merlix teamworx server application that affects the default.asp component during user authentication processes. This vulnerability specifically targets the password parameter handling within the login functionality, creating a pathway for remote attackers to manipulate database queries through malicious input. The flaw exists in the application's failure to properly sanitize or validate user-supplied input before incorporating it into sql command structures, which directly violates fundamental security principles for input validation and data sanitization. The vulnerability is categorized under cwe-89 sql injection as it allows attackers to inject malicious sql code that executes within the database context, potentially compromising the entire backend infrastructure.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the application's insecure handling of the passwd field during authentication. When users submit login credentials through the default.asp page, the password parameter is directly concatenated into sql queries without proper parameterization or input filtering mechanisms. This allows an attacker to craft malicious input that alters the intended sql query structure, potentially executing unauthorized database operations. Attackers can exploit this weakness by injecting sql payload characters such as single quotes, semicolons, or comment markers that manipulate the query execution flow. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it occurs during the authentication phase, providing attackers with potential access to user credentials, database schemas, and sensitive organizational data that may be stored within the application's database backend.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability creates significant risks for organizations using merlix teamworx server as it enables remote code execution capabilities through database manipulation. Attackers can leverage this weakness to extract user accounts, modify database records, escalate privileges, or even gain access to underlying system resources depending on the database configuration and permissions. The remote nature of the attack means that threat actors do not require physical access to the network or system to exploit this vulnerability, making it particularly attractive for automated attacks. The impact extends beyond simple data theft as attackers can potentially corrupt database integrity, disrupt service availability, or establish persistent access points within the network infrastructure. This vulnerability aligns with attack techniques documented in the mitre att&ck framework under initial access and execution phases, specifically targeting credential access and privilege escalation vectors.
Organizations should implement comprehensive mitigation strategies to address this vulnerability including immediate patching of affected systems, input validation improvements, and database access controls. The most effective immediate solution involves applying vendor patches or upgrading to versions that properly implement parameterized queries and input sanitization. Additionally, implementing web application firewalls can help detect and block malicious sql injection attempts. Database administrators should enforce least privilege principles, ensuring that application database accounts have minimal required permissions and that sensitive operations require additional authentication layers. Regular security assessments and code reviews should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other application components, as this type of flaw often indicates broader security gaps in application design. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of following secure coding practices and adhering to industry standards such as owasp top ten and iso/iec 27001 security requirements for application development and maintenance.