CVE-2008-6989 in Ezphotogallery
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in gallery.php in Easy Photo Gallery (aka Ezphotogallery) 2.1 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the username parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/03/2024
The CVE-2008-6989 vulnerability represents a critical sql injection flaw within the Easy Photo Gallery 2.1 web application that exposes a fundamental security weakness in input validation and query construction. This vulnerability specifically targets the gallery.php script where user-supplied data is directly incorporated into sql queries without proper sanitization or parameterization. The attack vector exploits the username parameter which serves as an entry point for malicious sql code injection, allowing remote adversaries to manipulate the underlying database through crafted input sequences.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper input handling within the application's backend processing logic. When the username parameter is submitted through the web interface, the application fails to validate or sanitize this input before incorporating it into sql statements. This creates an environment where attacker-controlled data can alter the intended sql query structure, potentially enabling unauthorized database access, data exfiltration, or even complete system compromise. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-89 which categorizes sql injection as a persistent weakness in software applications where user input is improperly handled in sql contexts.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft, encompassing potential system compromise and business disruption. Remote attackers can leverage this flaw to execute arbitrary sql commands, potentially gaining access to sensitive user information, modifying database content, or even escalating privileges within the affected system. The vulnerability's remote exploitability means that attackers do not require physical access to the system, making it particularly dangerous for web applications accessible over the internet. This weakness creates opportunities for data breaches, service disruption, and unauthorized access to user accounts within the photo gallery system.
Security professionals should implement multiple layers of defense to mitigate this vulnerability effectively. The primary remediation involves proper input validation and parameterized query construction to ensure that user-supplied data cannot alter sql command structure. Implementing proper input sanitization techniques, including whitelisting acceptable characters and lengths, along with using prepared statements or stored procedures, would eliminate this attack vector. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls to detect and block suspicious sql injection patterns, while conducting regular security audits to identify similar vulnerabilities in other application components. The remediation strategy should align with industry best practices outlined in the owasp top ten and mitre attack framework, particularly focusing on preventing injection flaws that could enable lateral movement within compromised systems.