CVE-2008-6865 in Sections Module
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in modules.php in the Sectionsnew module for PHP-Nuke allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the artid parameter in a printpage action.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/10/2017
The CVE-2008-6865 vulnerability represents a critical sql injection flaw within the sectionsnew module of php-nuke content management system. This vulnerability specifically affects the modules.php file and manifests when processing the artid parameter during printpage actions. The flaw enables remote attackers to inject malicious sql commands directly into the application's database layer, potentially compromising the entire system infrastructure.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization within the sectionsnew module. When the printpage action processes the artid parameter, the application fails to properly escape or validate user-supplied input before incorporating it into sql queries. This absence of proper parameter sanitization creates a direct pathway for attackers to manipulate the sql execution flow and execute unauthorized database operations. The vulnerability operates at the application layer and specifically targets the database communication mechanism, making it particularly dangerous for systems that rely on php-nuke for content management and user interaction.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft or modification. Attackers can leverage this weakness to gain unauthorized access to sensitive database information, potentially including user credentials, personal data, and system configuration details. The remote execution capability means that attackers do not require physical access to the system or local network privileges to exploit this vulnerability. This makes the attack surface significantly larger and increases the potential for widespread compromise across multiple systems. Organizations running affected php-nuke installations face substantial risks including data breaches, service disruption, and potential regulatory compliance violations.
Security practitioners should implement multiple layers of defense to mitigate this vulnerability. Immediate patching of the affected php-nuke versions is essential, as this vulnerability has been widely exploited in the past. Additionally, implementing proper input validation at the application level, using prepared statements or parameterized queries, and employing web application firewalls can provide additional protection. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-89 which specifically addresses sql injection flaws, and falls under ATT&CK technique T1190 for exploitation of remote services. Organizations should also conduct regular security assessments and maintain updated threat intelligence to identify similar vulnerabilities in other legacy systems that may be running outdated php-nuke versions or similar vulnerable codebases.