CVE-2008-6781 in EZ Gaming Directory
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in directory.php in Sites for Scripts (SFS) Gaming Directory allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the cat_id parameter in a list action.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/09/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-6781 represents a critical SQL injection flaw within the Sites for Scripts Gaming Directory application, specifically affecting the directory.php script. This vulnerability resides in the handling of user-supplied input through the cat_id parameter during list actions, creating a pathway for malicious actors to manipulate database queries and potentially gain unauthorized access to sensitive information. The flaw demonstrates a classic lack of proper input validation and sanitization, where user-provided data directly influences the construction of SQL commands without adequate filtering or escaping mechanisms.
The technical nature of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-89, which categorizes SQL injection as a severe weakness in application security. Attackers can exploit this flaw by crafting malicious payloads in the cat_id parameter that, when processed by the vulnerable directory.php script, result in unintended SQL command execution. This allows threat actors to manipulate the database structure, extract confidential data, modify records, or even escalate privileges within the affected system. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it enables remote code execution without requiring authentication, making it accessible to any attacker with network access to the vulnerable web application.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft, as it can lead to complete system compromise and unauthorized access to sensitive gaming directory information. Attackers may leverage this weakness to inject malicious commands that could result in data corruption, unauthorized user account creation, or even the installation of backdoors within the web server environment. The implications are significant for gaming directory platforms that store user information, game listings, and potentially payment-related data, as successful exploitation could result in substantial financial and reputational damage to the organization operating the vulnerable system.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2008-6781 should focus on implementing proper input validation and parameterized queries to prevent malicious SQL code from being executed. Organizations should immediately apply vendor patches if available, or implement input sanitization measures that escape special characters and validate parameter types before processing. The use of prepared statements and stored procedures can effectively prevent SQL injection attacks by separating SQL code from user input. Additionally, implementing web application firewalls and input validation rules at the network level can provide additional layers of protection. Security monitoring should include detection of unusual database query patterns and unauthorized access attempts that may indicate exploitation of this vulnerability. This remediation approach aligns with defensive techniques outlined in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under the T1190 technique for exploitation of remote services, emphasizing the importance of input validation as a core security control mechanism.