CVE-2009-0963 in PHPRunner
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple SQL injection vulnerabilities in PHPRunner 4.2, and possibly earlier, allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the SearchField parameter to (1) UserView_list.php, (2) orders_list.php, (3) users_list.php, and (4) Administrator_list.php.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/24/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2009-0963 represents a critical SQL injection flaw affecting PHPRunner 4.2 and potentially earlier versions of this web application framework. This vulnerability resides in the handling of user input within specific list view pages that generate dynamic SQL queries based on search parameters. The affected files include UserView_list.php, orders_list.php, users_list.php, and Administrator_list.php, all of which process the SearchField parameter without adequate input validation or sanitization mechanisms. The flaw allows remote attackers to inject malicious SQL commands directly into the application's database layer through carefully crafted search queries.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper parameter handling within the PHPRunner framework's search functionality. When users submit search queries through the web interface, the SearchField parameter is directly incorporated into SQL query construction without appropriate escaping or parameterization. This design flaw creates an environment where attacker-controlled input can manipulate the intended SQL execution flow, enabling unauthorized database access and command execution. The vulnerability manifests as a classic SQL injection attack vector, where malicious input can bypass authentication mechanisms, extract sensitive data, modify database contents, or even escalate privileges within the application's database environment.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft, encompassing potential system compromise and business disruption. Remote attackers could leverage this vulnerability to access confidential user information, financial data, or administrative credentials stored within the application's database. The attack surface is particularly concerning given that the vulnerability affects multiple list view pages, providing attackers with several potential entry points. According to CWE classification, this represents a CWE-89: Improper Neutralization of Special Elements used in an SQL Command, which is a fundamental weakness in database interaction design. The vulnerability also aligns with ATT&CK technique T1071.005: Application Layer Protocol: Web Protocols, as it exploits web application interfaces to manipulate database operations.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate implementation of input validation and parameterized query construction. Organizations should implement proper input sanitization techniques, including escaping special SQL characters and employing prepared statements or parameterized queries to separate SQL command structure from data. The most effective remediation involves updating to the latest version of PHPRunner where this vulnerability has been patched, as the vendor would have implemented proper input validation mechanisms. Additionally, network-level protections such as web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems should be deployed to monitor for suspicious search parameter patterns. Security configurations should also include database user privilege restrictions, ensuring that application database accounts have minimal required permissions and that access logging is enabled to detect potential exploitation attempts. Regular security assessments and code reviews should be conducted to identify similar input handling vulnerabilities in other application components, as this type of flaw often indicates broader architectural weaknesses in data validation practices.