CVE-2008-5859 in Constructr
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in index.php in Constructr CMS 3.02.5 and earlier, when register_globals is enabled and magic_quotes_gpc is disabled, allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the show_page parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/20/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-5859 represents a critical sql injection flaw within Constructr CMS version 3.02.5 and earlier releases. This weakness specifically targets the index.php script and exploits a dangerous combination of server configuration settings that create an environment conducive to malicious sql command execution. The vulnerability occurs when the php configuration parameter register_globals is enabled and magic_quotes_gpc is disabled, creating a perfect storm for unauthorized database access and manipulation. The attack vector is facilitated through the show_page parameter, which serves as the primary entry point for malicious sql payloads. This configuration combination essentially removes crucial php security safeguards that would normally prevent user input from being directly interpreted as executable code within sql queries.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability follows a well-established sql injection pattern that leverages the absence of proper input sanitization mechanisms. When register_globals is enabled, user-supplied data becomes automatically available as global variables within the php execution context, while the disabled magic_quotes_gpc setting means that sql metacharacters are not automatically escaped. Attackers can craft malicious payloads targeting the show_page parameter that, when processed by the vulnerable cms, are directly executed against the underlying database. This creates a pathway for attackers to perform unauthorized data retrieval, modification, or deletion operations, potentially leading to complete database compromise and unauthorized access to sensitive information stored within the cms. The vulnerability classification aligns with common weakness enumeration CWE-89, which specifically addresses sql injection vulnerabilities that occur when user-provided data is directly incorporated into sql commands without proper sanitization.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft, encompassing complete system compromise and potential lateral movement within network environments. Successful exploitation allows attackers to execute arbitrary sql commands that can manipulate the database schema, extract confidential information including user credentials, and potentially escalate privileges within the cms environment. The vulnerability affects organizations using outdated cms versions where security updates were not applied, creating persistent exposure windows for attackers who actively scan for such misconfigurations. Database administrators face significant risk of unauthorized access to sensitive data, including user accounts, content management information, and potentially system configuration details that could facilitate further attacks. The vulnerability's impact is amplified by the fact that it requires only basic web application exploitation techniques, making it accessible to attackers with moderate technical skills.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability must address both immediate remediation and long-term security hardening measures. The primary recommendation involves updating Constructr CMS to versions beyond 3.02.5 where the sql injection vulnerability has been patched and properly addressed. Organizations should also ensure that php server configurations follow security best practices by disabling register_globals and enabling magic_quotes_gpc or implementing proper input validation mechanisms. Database access controls should be strengthened through principle of least privilege enforcement, ensuring that cms database accounts have minimal required permissions and that connection strings are properly secured. Network segmentation and web application firewalls can provide additional layers of protection against sql injection attempts. Security monitoring should include detection of unusual database access patterns and sql query execution that could indicate exploitation attempts. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to technique T1190 for exploit public-facing application and T1071.004 for application layer protocol. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be implemented to identify similar misconfigurations across the entire application portfolio, as this type of vulnerability often indicates broader security gaps in application architecture and configuration management practices.