CVE-2008-6243 in EZ Hotscripts-likesite
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in showcategory.php in Scripts For Sites (SFS) Hotscripts-like Site allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the cid parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/09/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-6243 represents a critical sql injection flaw within the showcategoryphp script of Scripts For Sites hotscripts-like website platform. This vulnerability specifically targets the cid parameter which is used to display category information on web pages. The flaw allows remote attackers to manipulate the sql query execution by injecting malicious sql commands through the cid parameter, potentially enabling complete database compromise and unauthorized access to sensitive information. The vulnerability falls under the category of CWE-89 sql injection as defined by the common weakness enumeration standard, which specifically addresses the improper handling of sql queries that can lead to unauthorized database access and data manipulation.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs when the application fails to properly sanitize or validate user input received through the cid parameter in the showcategoryphp script. When an attacker submits malicious sql code through this parameter, the application directly incorporates this input into sql queries without adequate filtering or parameterization, creating an exploitable condition. The attack vector is particularly dangerous because it allows for arbitrary sql command execution, meaning attackers can perform read, write, or delete operations on the underlying database. This vulnerability is classified as a remote code execution risk since the malicious input can be delivered through web browser requests without requiring local system access or authentication.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft to encompass complete system compromise and potential service disruption. An attacker exploiting this vulnerability could extract sensitive user data, modify database contents, create new user accounts with administrative privileges, or even escalate the attack to compromise other systems within the network. The vulnerability affects websites running the Scripts For Sites platform that utilize the showcategoryphp script, potentially exposing thousands of users to data breaches and unauthorized access. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to T1190 legitimate credentials and T1071.004 application layer protocol as attackers can leverage the sql injection to gain unauthorized access to database systems and potentially move laterally within the network infrastructure.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2008-6243 require immediate implementation of proper input validation and parameterized queries to prevent sql injection attacks. The most effective approach involves using prepared statements or parameterized queries that separate sql code from user input, ensuring that malicious sql commands cannot be executed. Organizations should also implement proper input sanitization techniques, including whitelisting acceptable characters and lengths for the cid parameter, and employ web application firewalls to detect and block suspicious sql injection attempts. Additionally, regular security audits and code reviews should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities within the application codebase. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of following secure coding practices and adhering to industry standards such as OWASP top ten and NIST cybersecurity guidelines for preventing sql injection attacks. System administrators should also ensure that the Scripts For Sites platform is updated to the latest version that contains patches for this vulnerability, as the original version may contain additional unpatched security flaws that could compound the risk.