CVE-2008-6488 in PHP Image Gallery
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in index.php in SoftComplex PHP Image Gallery 1.0 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the Admin field in a login action.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/10/2024
The CVE-2008-6488 vulnerability represents a critical sql injection flaw within the SoftComplex PHP Image Gallery version 1.0 software. This vulnerability specifically targets the index.php file and occurs during the login authentication process where the Admin field is processed. The flaw allows remote attackers to manipulate the database queries by injecting malicious sql code through the login form, potentially gaining unauthorized access to sensitive data and system resources.
This vulnerability falls under the common weakness enumeration CWE-89 which categorizes sql injection attacks as a fundamental web application security flaw. The attack vector exploits improper input validation and sanitization within the application's authentication mechanism. When user input from the Admin field is directly concatenated into sql queries without proper escaping or parameterization, it creates an opening for malicious actors to execute arbitrary sql commands against the underlying database. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it occurs during the login process, which means attackers can potentially escalate privileges or access administrative functions.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft, as it provides attackers with the capability to manipulate the entire database structure. An attacker could extract user credentials, modify gallery content, delete images, or even gain shell access to the server if the database user has sufficient privileges. The remote nature of the attack means that exploitation can occur from anywhere on the internet without requiring physical access to the system. This vulnerability directly aligns with attack techniques documented in the attack pattern taxonomy under the category of sql injection, where attackers leverage application input fields to manipulate database queries and achieve unauthorized access.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2008-6488 should focus on implementing proper input validation and parameterized queries throughout the application code. The most effective approach involves using prepared statements with parameterized queries to ensure that user input cannot alter the intended sql command structure. Additionally, implementing proper authentication controls including account lockout mechanisms, input sanitization, and regular security audits would significantly reduce the risk of exploitation. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls to detect and block sql injection attempts, while ensuring that all legacy applications are properly updated or replaced with secure versions that follow modern security standards and best practices for database interaction.