CVE-2008-6466 in Image Gallery
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in image_gallery.php in the Akira Powered Image Gallery (image_gallery) plugin 0.9.6.2 for e107 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the image parameter in an image-detail action.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/04/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-6466 represents a critical SQL injection flaw within the Akira Powered Image Gallery plugin version 0.9.6.2 for the e107 content management system. This vulnerability exists in the image_gallery.php script and specifically affects the image-detail action functionality. The flaw stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization of user-supplied data, creating a pathway for malicious actors to inject arbitrary SQL commands into the database query execution process. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it allows remote attackers to execute commands without requiring authentication or prior access to the system, making it a severe threat to web application security.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs when the image parameter in the image-detail action is processed without proper sanitization measures. When a user submits an image identifier through the image parameter, the application directly incorporates this input into SQL query construction without appropriate escaping or parameterization. This design flaw falls under the Common Weakness Enumeration category CWE-89, which specifically addresses SQL injection vulnerabilities where untrusted data is concatenated into SQL commands. The vulnerability creates a direct pathway for attackers to manipulate the underlying database queries and potentially gain unauthorized access to sensitive information, modify database contents, or execute administrative commands on the affected system.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft, as it provides attackers with the capability to perform complete database compromise. Remote attackers can leverage this vulnerability to extract sensitive user information, including usernames, passwords, and personal data stored within the e107 system. The vulnerability also enables attackers to modify or delete database records, potentially causing significant disruption to the website's functionality and integrity. Additionally, successful exploitation could allow attackers to escalate privileges within the database, potentially leading to full system compromise. This vulnerability aligns with MITRE ATT&CK technique T1071.004, which covers application layer protocol manipulation, and T1190, which addresses exploit public-facing applications, making it a prime target for automated exploitation tools and malicious actors seeking to compromise web applications.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2008-6466 require immediate implementation of input validation and parameterized query approaches. System administrators should upgrade to the latest version of the Akira Powered Image Gallery plugin where the vulnerability has been patched, as the original version 0.9.6.2 contains no built-in protection against such attacks. The recommended solution involves implementing proper input sanitization techniques, including the use of prepared statements or parameterized queries to prevent user input from being interpreted as SQL commands. Organizations should also implement web application firewalls and input validation rules to detect and block suspicious SQL injection attempts. Additional security measures include restricting database user privileges, implementing proper access controls, and conducting regular security assessments of web applications to identify similar vulnerabilities. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper input validation and output encoding in preventing injection attacks, which should be considered fundamental security practices in all web application development and maintenance processes.