CVE-2009-0427 in Member Directory Manager
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in CategoryManager/upload_image_category.asp in DMXReady Member Directory Manager 1.1 and earlier allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the cid parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/22/2024
The SQL injection vulnerability identified in CVE-2009-0427 affects DMXReady Member Directory Manager version 1.1 and earlier, specifically within the CategoryManager/upload_image_category.asp component. This vulnerability represents a critical security flaw that enables remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands against the underlying database system. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and sanitization of user-supplied data, particularly the cid parameter that is processed without proper escaping or parameterization. The affected application fails to implement adequate security controls to prevent malicious SQL code from being injected and subsequently executed within the database context.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker submits a malicious value through the cid parameter in the upload_image_category.asp script. This parameter is directly incorporated into SQL queries without proper sanitization or parameterization techniques, creating an environment where attacker-controlled input can manipulate the intended database query structure. The vulnerability is classified as a classic SQL injection flaw that falls under CWE-89, which specifically addresses improper neutralization of special elements used in SQL commands. This weakness allows for unauthorized access to database contents, potential data manipulation, and in severe cases, complete database compromise. The attack vector is particularly concerning as it operates entirely through web-based interfaces without requiring local system access or elevated privileges.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft to encompass complete system compromise and unauthorized administrative access. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to extract sensitive information including user credentials, personal data, and system configurations from the database. The potential for data corruption and deletion exists, as well as the ability to escalate privileges and gain persistent access to the affected system. This vulnerability directly impacts the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the member directory system, potentially affecting thousands of users whose personal information may be exposed. The vulnerability also aligns with ATT&CK technique T1071.005, which covers application layer protocol manipulation, and T1190, which addresses exploitation of remote services.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on immediate implementation of input validation and parameterized queries. The most effective remediation involves properly sanitizing all user inputs through the use of parameterized database queries or stored procedures that separate SQL code from data. Additionally, implementing proper access controls and privilege management can limit the damage from successful exploitation attempts. Organizations should also consider deploying web application firewalls to detect and block malicious SQL injection attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of following secure coding practices and adhering to security standards such as those outlined in the OWASP Top Ten project. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be conducted to identify similar weaknesses in other components of the system. The remediation process must include thorough code review to ensure that all input parameters are properly validated and that no similar vulnerabilities exist in other parts of the application. System administrators should also implement monitoring and logging mechanisms to detect unauthorized access attempts and potential exploitation activities.