CVE-2008-6753 in SilverStripe
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in SilverStripe before 2.2.2 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via unspecified vectors related to AjaxUniqueTextField.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/06/2018
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-6753 represents a critical sql injection flaw within SilverStripe content management system versions prior to 2.2.2. This vulnerability specifically affects the AjaxUniqueTextField component which is utilized for providing real-time validation of unique field values during form submissions. The flaw arises from insufficient input sanitization and improper parameter handling when processing user-supplied data through ajax requests. Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by crafting malicious input that bypasses normal validation mechanisms and injects arbitrary sql commands into the database layer. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it operates through ajax endpoints that are typically designed to be lightweight and responsive, making it difficult to detect through conventional security monitoring approaches.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the improper handling of user input within the AjaxUniqueTextField class. When users interact with forms that utilize this field type, the system processes their input through ajax requests to verify uniqueness of values such as usernames or email addresses. The flaw occurs in the query construction phase where user-provided data is directly incorporated into sql statements without proper escaping or parameterization. This follows the classic sql injection pattern where attacker-controlled data flows directly into database queries, violating fundamental security principles of input validation and output encoding. The vulnerability is categorized under CWE-89 which specifically addresses sql injection flaws in software applications, making it a well-documented and widely understood threat vector in the cybersecurity community.
The operational impact of CVE-2008-6753 extends far beyond simple data theft or modification. Successful exploitation can lead to complete database compromise, allowing attackers to execute arbitrary commands on the underlying database server. This includes the ability to read sensitive information from administrative tables, modify or delete critical data, and potentially escalate privileges within the application. The remote nature of this vulnerability means that attackers do not require physical access to the server or knowledge of internal network structures to exploit it. The attack surface is further expanded because many SilverStripe installations use the AjaxUniqueTextField for common form fields, making the vulnerability applicable to numerous websites and applications. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1071.004 which covers application layer protocol manipulation, and T1190 which addresses exploit for client execution through web applications.
Organizations affected by this vulnerability should immediately implement multiple layers of defense to protect their systems. The primary mitigation strategy involves upgrading to SilverStripe version 2.2.2 or later, which includes proper input sanitization and parameterized query handling for the AjaxUniqueTextField component. Additionally, implementing web application firewalls with sql injection detection capabilities can provide an additional protective layer. Database access controls should be reviewed to ensure that application accounts have minimal required privileges, following the principle of least privilege. Input validation should be strengthened at multiple levels including client-side and server-side to prevent malicious data from reaching the database layer. Regular security assessments and penetration testing should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other components of the application stack. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of maintaining current security patches and following secure coding practices that emphasize parameterized queries and proper input validation to prevent similar issues in future development cycles.