CVE-2008-5950 in Template Creature
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in media/media_level.asp in ASP Template Creature allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the mcatid parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/13/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-5950 represents a critical SQL injection flaw within the ASP Template Creature content management system. This vulnerability specifically affects the media/media_level.asp component where user input is not properly sanitized before being incorporated into database queries. The mcatid parameter serves as the primary attack vector, allowing malicious actors to inject arbitrary SQL commands that can be executed against the underlying database system.
This type of vulnerability falls under the Common Weakness Enumeration category CWE-89, which specifically addresses SQL injection weaknesses in software applications. The flaw demonstrates a classic lack of input validation and proper parameterization in database query construction. When the application processes the mcatid parameter without adequate sanitization measures, it creates an environment where attackers can manipulate the SQL execution flow through carefully crafted input sequences that bypass normal security controls.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends far beyond simple data theft or manipulation. Remote attackers can leverage this weakness to gain unauthorized access to sensitive database information, potentially including user credentials, personal data, and system configuration details. The attack surface is particularly concerning as it allows for complete database compromise, enabling threat actors to perform unauthorized data modification, deletion, or extraction operations that can severely impact organizational security posture and compliance requirements.
From a threat modeling perspective, this vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190 which covers exploiting vulnerabilities in web applications. The attack chain typically involves initial reconnaissance to identify the vulnerable parameter, followed by crafting malicious payloads that exploit the SQL injection flaw. The remote nature of this vulnerability means that attackers do not require physical access to the system or local network presence, making it particularly dangerous for web-facing applications.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2008-5950 should prioritize immediate implementation of parameterized queries and input validation controls. The most effective defense involves proper sanitization of all user-supplied input through prepared statements or stored procedures that separate SQL commands from data. Organizations should implement web application firewalls to detect and block suspicious SQL injection patterns, while also conducting regular security assessments to identify similar vulnerabilities in other application components. Additionally, the application should be updated to a patched version of ASP Template Creature that addresses this specific flaw, as the vendor has likely released security updates to resolve this vulnerability.