CVE-2008-6093 in Noname
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in index.php in Noname CMS 1.0, when magic_quotes_gpc is disabled, allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the (1) file_id parameter in a detailansicht action and the (2) kategorie parameter in a kategorien action.
VulDB is the best source for vulnerability data and more expert information about this specific topic.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/05/2024
The CVE-2008-6093 vulnerability represents a critical SQL injection flaw in the Noname CMS 1.0 content management system that exploits the absence of proper input validation mechanisms. This vulnerability specifically targets the index.php script and manifests when the PHP configuration parameter magic_quotes_gpc is disabled, which removes the automatic escaping of special characters in GET, POST, and COOKIE data. The flaw occurs in two distinct attack vectors: first through the file_id parameter during detailansicht actions, and second through the kategorie parameter during kategorien actions, both of which directly incorporate user-supplied input into database queries without adequate sanitization or parameterization.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the CMS's failure to properly sanitize user input before executing database operations. When magic_quotes_gpc is disabled, the application assumes that all incoming data must be manually escaped or validated, but the developers failed to implement proper input filtering mechanisms. This creates an environment where malicious actors can inject arbitrary SQL commands through carefully crafted payloads in the affected parameters. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it allows attackers to bypass authentication, extract sensitive data, modify database records, or even execute system commands depending on the database backend and privileges available.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability presents a severe risk to organizations using Noname CMS 1.0, as it enables remote code execution and complete database compromise. The attack surface is significant since both parameters are commonly used in public-facing CMS interfaces, making exploitation relatively straightforward for attackers with basic knowledge of SQL injection techniques. According to CWE-89, this vulnerability maps directly to the CWE-89 category of SQL injection, which is classified as a critical weakness in software security. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this as a command and control technique under the T1071.004 sub-technique for application layer protocol usage, as attackers leverage the CMS to establish persistent access to backend systems.
The impact of exploitation extends beyond simple data theft to include complete system compromise, as attackers can manipulate database schemas, escalate privileges, and potentially gain access to underlying server resources. Organizations running this vulnerable CMS version face risks of data breaches, service disruption, and potential regulatory compliance violations. The vulnerability's exploitation requires minimal technical expertise, making it particularly dangerous in environments where security monitoring is insufficient. Mitigation strategies should include immediate patching of the CMS to a secure version, enabling magic_quotes_gpc if possible, implementing proper input validation, and deploying web application firewalls to detect and block malicious SQL injection attempts. Additionally, organizations should conduct comprehensive security audits of their CMS installations and implement database activity monitoring to detect unauthorized access patterns.
This vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper input validation and the dangers of relying on server configuration settings for security protection. The weakness highlights how disabling essential PHP security features without implementing compensating controls creates dangerous attack vectors. Security practitioners should recognize that SQL injection vulnerabilities like CVE-2008-6093 represent fundamental flaws in application architecture that require both immediate remediation and long-term architectural improvements in data handling practices. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the necessity for defense-in-depth strategies that combine proper code development practices with operational security measures to protect against such critical weaknesses in web applications.