CVE-2009-1032 in Advanced Image Hosting Script
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in gallery_list.php in YABSoft Advanced Image Hosting (AIH) Script 2.3 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the gal parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/25/2024
The CVE-2009-1032 vulnerability represents a critical sql injection flaw within the YABSoft Advanced Image Hosting AIH Script version 2.3 that exposes the gallery_list.php component to remote exploitation. This vulnerability specifically targets the gal parameter which is improperly validated and sanitized before being incorporated into sql query constructions. The flaw exists due to insufficient input filtering mechanisms that fail to properly escape or validate user-supplied data, creating an avenue for malicious actors to inject arbitrary sql commands directly into the application's database layer.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker crafts malicious input for the gal parameter that manipulates the sql query execution flow. The application processes this unvalidated input without proper sanitization, allowing sql injection payloads to be executed within the database context. This creates a direct pathway for attackers to bypass authentication mechanisms, extract sensitive data, modify database records, or even execute administrative commands on the underlying database system. The vulnerability falls under the CWE-89 category of sql injection, which is classified as a high-risk vulnerability due to its potential for data compromise and system infiltration. According to the ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to the technique T1190 - exploit public-facing application, where attackers leverage web application flaws to gain unauthorized access to backend systems.
The operational impact of CVE-2009-1032 extends beyond simple data theft to encompass complete system compromise and unauthorized access to sensitive user information. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to access user accounts, retrieve confidential database contents, manipulate image galleries, and potentially establish persistent access through database backdoors. The affected YABSoft AIH Script version 2.3 represents a legacy application that likely lacks modern security controls, making it particularly vulnerable to such attacks. Organizations using this software face significant risks including data breaches, regulatory compliance violations, and potential legal consequences from unauthorized data access. The vulnerability's remote nature means that attackers do not require physical access to the system, making it an attractive target for widespread exploitation.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2009-1032 should prioritize immediate application patching and input validation improvements. The most effective solution involves implementing proper parameterized queries or prepared statements that separate sql code from user input, preventing malicious payloads from being executed. Additionally, input validation should be strengthened to reject or sanitize all potentially harmful characters and sequences before processing user data. Organizations should also implement web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems to monitor for sql injection attempts. The application should be updated to a supported version that addresses this vulnerability, as version 2.3 is outdated and likely contains additional security flaws. Regular security assessments and penetration testing should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other application components, while access controls should be reviewed to minimize the impact of potential compromises. According to industry best practices, this vulnerability should be prioritized for immediate remediation due to its high severity and the availability of straightforward patching solutions.