CVE-2008-5817 in webClassifieds
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple SQL injection vulnerabilities in index.php in Web Scribble Solutions webClassifieds 2005 allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the (1) user and (2) password fields in a sign_in action.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/21/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-5817 represents a critical SQL injection flaw within the webClassifieds 2005 application developed by Web Scribble Solutions. This vulnerability specifically affects the index.php script and targets the sign_in action functionality, making it particularly dangerous as it directly impacts user authentication mechanisms. The flaw exists in how the application processes user input for authentication credentials, creating an exploitable pathway for malicious actors to manipulate database queries through carefully crafted input parameters.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization within the application's authentication routine. When users attempt to sign in, the application accepts the user and password parameters directly from the HTTP request without proper sanitization or parameterized query construction. This allows attackers to inject malicious SQL code that gets executed within the database context, potentially enabling full database compromise. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-89 which specifically addresses SQL injection flaws where untrusted data is incorporated into SQL commands without proper escaping or parameterization.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability presents a severe risk to the confidentiality and integrity of the classifieds system. Remote attackers can exploit these flaws to execute arbitrary SQL commands, potentially gaining unauthorized access to user credentials, classified advertisements, and other sensitive data stored within the database. The impact extends beyond simple data theft as attackers could modify or delete database records, escalate privileges, or even establish persistent access through database-level backdoors. This type of vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190 which covers exploit for lateral movement through database access, and T1071.004 which covers application layer protocol usage for command execution.
The exploitation of this vulnerability requires minimal technical expertise, making it particularly dangerous as it can be leveraged by attackers with basic knowledge of SQL injection techniques. Attackers can craft malicious payloads that bypass authentication mechanisms entirely, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The vulnerability's persistence across multiple input fields increases the attack surface and reduces the effectiveness of simple input validation measures. Organizations using this version of webClassifieds face significant risk of data breaches, regulatory compliance violations, and potential legal consequences due to inadequate security controls. The vulnerability demonstrates a fundamental lack of secure coding practices and highlights the importance of implementing proper input validation, parameterized queries, and regular security assessments to prevent such critical flaws from persisting in production environments.