CVE-2009-1066 in Pixie CMS
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in the referral function in admin/lib/lib_logs.php in Pixie CMS 1.01a allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the Referer HTTP header in a request.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/25/2024
The vulnerability described in CVE-2009-1066 represents a critical SQL injection flaw within the Pixie CMS 1.01a administrative interface. This issue specifically targets the referral function located in the admin/lib/lib_logs.php file, demonstrating how seemingly innocuous HTTP header parameters can be exploited to compromise entire database systems. The vulnerability arises from inadequate input validation and sanitization of the Referer HTTP header, which is commonly used by web browsers to indicate the page that linked to the current resource. When this header is improperly handled within the CMS's logging functionality, it creates an attack vector that allows malicious actors to inject arbitrary SQL commands directly into the database query execution chain.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through the manipulation of the Referer HTTP header in web requests sent to the administrative interface. Attackers can craft malicious requests containing SQL payload within the Referer field that gets processed by the vulnerable lib_logs.php script. This script, designed to log referral information for administrative monitoring, fails to properly sanitize or escape the input data before incorporating it into SQL queries. The flaw aligns with CWE-89 which categorizes SQL injection vulnerabilities as weaknesses in software that allows attackers to manipulate database queries through untrusted input. The vulnerability's classification as a remote attack means that no local access or authentication is required to exploit the flaw, making it particularly dangerous as it can be leveraged from any location on the internet.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends far beyond simple data theft, encompassing complete database compromise and potential system takeover. Successful exploitation could enable attackers to extract sensitive information including user credentials, database schema details, and confidential content stored within the CMS. The administrative nature of the affected component means that attackers could potentially escalate privileges and gain full control over the CMS installation. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to T1190 - Exploit Public-Facing Application, as it targets a publicly accessible administrative component that is part of the web application's attack surface. The implications for organizations using Pixie CMS 1.01a are severe, as this vulnerability could lead to data breaches, service disruption, and compliance violations that may result in significant financial and reputational damage.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability must address both immediate remediation and long-term security improvements within the CMS infrastructure. The primary solution involves implementing proper input validation and sanitization of all HTTP headers, particularly the Referer field, before they are processed by database queries. This includes using parameterized queries or prepared statements to prevent SQL injection, as recommended by OWASP and other security standards. Organizations should also implement proper access controls and authentication mechanisms for administrative interfaces, ensuring that only authorized personnel can access sensitive functions. Additionally, regular security auditing and penetration testing should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other components of the web application stack. The vulnerability highlights the importance of input validation at all levels of application processing and demonstrates how even indirect input sources like HTTP headers can pose significant security risks.