CVE-2008-6615 in Zen Cart
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in index.php in Zen Software Zen Cart 2008 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the keyword parameter in the advanced_search_result page. NOTE: the provenance of this information is unknown; the details are obtained solely from third party information.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/24/2025
This vulnerability represents a critical sql injection flaw in the zen cart e-commerce platform version 2008, specifically targeting the index.php file within the advanced_search_result page functionality. The vulnerability arises from insufficient input validation and sanitization of the keyword parameter, which allows remote attackers to inject malicious sql code directly into the application's database queries. The flaw exists at the application layer where user input flows directly into sql execution contexts without proper parameterization or escaping mechanisms.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability follows a classic sql injection pattern where an attacker can manipulate the keyword parameter to alter the intended sql query structure. When the application processes the keyword input in the advanced_search_result page, it concatenates user-supplied data directly into sql statements without proper sanitization, creating an opening for malicious sql commands to be executed with the privileges of the application's database user. This type of vulnerability maps directly to common weakness enumeration cwE-89, which categorizes sql injection as a fundamental flaw in data handling and input validation processes. The attack vector is remote and requires no authentication, making it particularly dangerous as it can be exploited by anyone with access to the vulnerable web application.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends far beyond simple data theft, as successful exploitation can lead to complete database compromise, unauthorized data modification, and potential lateral movement within the application environment. Attackers could extract sensitive customer information, modify product catalogs, manipulate order processing, and potentially escalate privileges to gain administrative control over the entire e-commerce platform. The vulnerability also provides attackers with a persistent entry point that could be used for further reconnaissance and exploitation of other system components. According to the mitre attack framework, this vulnerability aligns with tactics such as credential access and defense evasion, as attackers might use it to harvest database credentials and then modify application behavior to avoid detection.
Mitigation strategies should focus on implementing proper input validation and parameterized queries to prevent sql injection attacks. The primary fix involves modifying the index.php file to use prepared statements or proper sql escaping mechanisms when processing the keyword parameter. Organizations should also implement web application firewalls to detect and block suspicious sql injection patterns, conduct regular security testing including automated scanning and manual penetration testing, and ensure all systems are updated to patched versions of the software. Additionally, implementing principle of least privilege for database accounts and regular monitoring of database access logs can help detect unauthorized activities. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of input validation and proper data handling practices in web applications, particularly in e-commerce systems that process sensitive customer data.