CVE-2009-1778 in BigACE CMS
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in the new user registration feature in BigACE CMS 2.5, when magic_quotes_gpc is disabled, allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the username parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/29/2024
The CVE-2009-1778 vulnerability represents a critical sql injection flaw discovered in BigACE CMS version 2.5 affecting the new user registration functionality. This vulnerability specifically targets the username parameter during user registration processes and exploits a fundamental weakness in input validation mechanisms. The flaw becomes particularly dangerous when the php configuration directive magic_quotes_gpc is disabled, which removes the automatic escaping of special characters that would normally protect against such attacks. The vulnerability operates at the application layer and can be exploited by remote attackers without requiring authentication or privileged access, making it highly dangerous for web applications that rely on this content management system.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper input sanitization within the user registration module of BigACE CMS. When users attempt to register new accounts, the system accepts the username parameter directly without adequate validation or escaping before incorporating it into sql queries. This lack of proper input filtering creates an opening for malicious actors to inject specially crafted sql commands through the username field. The vulnerability is classified as a classic sql injection attack pattern that falls under the common weakness enumeration category CWE-89, which specifically addresses improper neutralization of special elements used in sql commands. The attack vector is particularly effective because it targets the registration process where user input is typically expected to be less scrutinized than other system components.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft or modification, as it provides attackers with potentially full system control over affected installations. Remote attackers can leverage this vulnerability to execute arbitrary sql commands against the underlying database, potentially gaining access to sensitive user information, modifying database content, or even escalating privileges within the system. The implications are severe for organizations relying on BigACE CMS 2.5, as successful exploitation could lead to complete database compromise, user account takeover, and potential lateral movement within network infrastructure. This vulnerability also aligns with several tactics described in the mitre att&ck framework under the execution and credential access domains, specifically targeting the use of sql injection as a method for gaining unauthorized access to system resources.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2009-1778 require immediate attention and multiple layers of protection to address the underlying vulnerability. The most effective immediate solution involves upgrading to a patched version of BigACE CMS that properly implements input validation and sanitization for all user-provided data. Organizations should also implement proper parameterized queries or prepared statements in their sql operations to prevent injection attacks regardless of configuration settings. Additionally, system administrators should enable magic_quotes_gpc as a temporary workaround while implementing proper code fixes, though this should not be considered a permanent solution. Network-level defenses such as web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems can provide additional monitoring and blocking capabilities for known attack patterns. Regular security audits and input validation testing should be implemented to identify similar vulnerabilities in other application components, as this type of flaw often indicates broader security issues within the application architecture.