CVE-2009-0406 in Community CMS
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in index.php in Community CMS 0.4 and earlier allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the id parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/23/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2009-0406 represents a critical SQL injection flaw within Community CMS version 0.4 and earlier releases. This security weakness exists in the index.php script where user input is improperly handled, creating an avenue for malicious actors to manipulate database queries through the id parameter. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and sanitization mechanisms that fail to properly escape or filter user-supplied data before incorporating it into SQL command structures.
This SQL injection vulnerability operates under the Common Weakness Enumeration classification of CWE-89, which specifically addresses improper neutralization of special elements used in SQL commands. The flaw allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands against the underlying database system, potentially enabling full database compromise, data exfiltration, and unauthorized access to sensitive information. The attack vector requires minimal privileges as the vulnerability can be exploited remotely without authentication, making it particularly dangerous for web applications hosting critical data.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft, as successful exploitation can lead to complete system compromise and persistent backdoor access. Attackers can leverage the SQL injection to escalate privileges, modify database content, extract user credentials, and potentially gain shell access to the underlying server. The vulnerability affects the database layer directly, bypassing application-level security controls and potentially allowing attackers to perform administrative functions within the CMS. This type of vulnerability is particularly concerning for content management systems that handle sensitive user data and require robust security controls to prevent unauthorized access.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2009-0406 should prioritize immediate patching of affected Community CMS installations to version 0.5 or later where the vulnerability has been addressed through proper input validation and parameterized query implementation. Organizations should implement proper input sanitization techniques including parameterized queries, stored procedures, and strict input validation to prevent similar vulnerabilities from occurring. Network segmentation and database access controls should be enforced to limit the potential impact of successful exploitation. Additionally, regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be conducted to identify and remediate similar weaknesses in other applications. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under the T1190 technique for exploitation of remote services, highlighting the importance of maintaining up-to-date security patches and implementing robust network security controls to prevent unauthorized access to vulnerable systems.