CVE-2008-5636 in Lito Lite CMS
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in cate.php in Lito Lite CMS, when magic_quotes_gpc is disabled, allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the cid parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/12/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-5636 represents a critical SQL injection flaw within the Lito Lite Content Management System, specifically affecting the cate.php script. This vulnerability arises from inadequate input validation mechanisms that fail to properly sanitize user-supplied data before incorporating it into database queries. The flaw becomes particularly dangerous when the PHP configuration parameter magic_quotes_gpc is disabled, which removes the automatic escaping of special characters that would otherwise provide basic protection against such attacks. The cid parameter in the cate.php script serves as the primary attack vector, where malicious input can be crafted to manipulate the underlying SQL execution flow.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the CMS's failure to employ proper parameterized queries or input sanitization techniques when processing the cid parameter. When magic_quotes_gpc is disabled, the application becomes vulnerable to classic SQL injection attacks because user input flows directly into SQL statements without adequate filtering or escaping. Attackers can exploit this weakness by crafting malicious SQL payloads within the cid parameter that, when processed by the vulnerable script, alter the intended database query behavior. This allows unauthorized individuals to execute arbitrary SQL commands on the underlying database system, potentially gaining full access to stored data, modifying database contents, or even escalating privileges within the application environment.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data compromise, as it provides attackers with extensive capabilities to manipulate the CMS functionality and underlying database infrastructure. Successful exploitation could result in complete database exposure, data theft, unauthorized content modification, or even full system compromise if the database user has elevated privileges. The vulnerability affects the integrity and confidentiality of all content managed by the Lito Lite CMS, potentially exposing sensitive information to unauthorized parties. Additionally, the attack surface includes potential for privilege escalation and persistent backdoor establishment, making this vulnerability particularly dangerous for organizations relying on the affected CMS for critical operations.
Security mitigation strategies for CVE-2008-5636 should prioritize immediate implementation of proper input validation and parameterized queries throughout the application codebase. The most effective remediation involves replacing direct SQL query construction with prepared statements that separate SQL logic from user input, thereby preventing malicious payloads from being executed as part of the database command. Organizations should also ensure that magic_quotes_gpc is properly configured or implement comprehensive input sanitization measures as a defense-in-depth approach. According to CWE guidelines, this vulnerability maps to CWE-89 which specifically addresses SQL injection flaws, while ATT&CK framework categorizes this under T1190 - Exploit Public-Facing Application, highlighting the importance of regular security assessments and input validation controls. The remediation process should include comprehensive code review, implementation of web application firewalls, and regular security testing to prevent similar vulnerabilities from emerging in other parts of the application architecture.