CVE-2009-1852 in MyForum
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple SQL injection vulnerabilities in Graphiks MyForum 1.3 allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the (1) Username and (2) Password fields.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/30/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2009-1852 represents a critical SQL injection flaw within Graphiks MyForum version 1.3, a web-based discussion platform that was widely deployed in enterprise and organizational environments during the late 2000s. This vulnerability resides in the authentication mechanism of the forum software where user credentials are processed through unvalidated input fields, creating a pathway for malicious actors to manipulate database queries. The specific attack vectors target the Username and Password fields during the login process, which are processed without proper sanitization or parameterization, making the system susceptible to unauthorized database access and potential system compromise.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability follows the classic SQL injection pattern where attacker-controlled input is directly concatenated into SQL query strings rather than being properly escaped or parameterized. When users submit their credentials through the login interface, the application fails to validate or sanitize the input data before incorporating it into database queries, allowing attackers to inject malicious SQL code that can manipulate the underlying database structure. This flaw directly maps to CWE-89, which defines SQL injection as the insertion of malicious SQL code into input fields that are then executed by the database, and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190, which describes the exploitation of vulnerabilities in application input validation to execute arbitrary code.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft, as successful exploitation can lead to complete database compromise, unauthorized user account creation, data modification or deletion, and potential lateral movement within the network infrastructure where the forum is deployed. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to escalate privileges, access sensitive user information, or even gain shell access to the underlying database server. The vulnerability affects the integrity and confidentiality of the entire forum system, potentially exposing private discussions, user credentials, and other sensitive information stored within the database. Organizations running this vulnerable software face significant risk of data breaches and regulatory compliance violations, particularly in environments where the forum contains sensitive organizational or personal data.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate implementation of input validation and parameterized queries throughout the application codebase. The most effective approach involves converting all database queries to use parameterized statements or prepared statements, which separate the SQL code from the data being processed. Additionally, implementing proper input sanitization, enforcing strict field validation, and applying the principle of least privilege for database connections can significantly reduce the attack surface. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems to monitor for exploitation attempts, while conducting thorough code reviews and penetration testing to identify similar vulnerabilities in other applications. The vulnerability highlights the critical importance of secure coding practices and regular security assessments in preventing widespread exploitation of database-related flaws that can compromise entire organizational infrastructures.