CVE-2009-2111 in DB Top Sites
Summary
by MITRE
Static code injection vulnerability in add_reg.php in DB Top Sites 1.0 allows remote attackers to inject arbitrary PHP code via a crafted (1) url and (2) location parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/01/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2009-2111 represents a critical static code injection flaw in the DB Top Sites 1.0 web application's add_reg.php component. This vulnerability resides within the input validation mechanisms that process user-supplied data, specifically targeting the url and location parameters that are used to register new website entries in the database. The flaw allows malicious actors to inject arbitrary PHP code directly into the application's execution flow, bypassing normal security controls and potentially enabling complete system compromise. The vulnerability stems from insufficient sanitization and validation of user inputs, creating an environment where attacker-controlled data can be executed as code within the web server context.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability follows a pattern consistent with CWE-94, which describes the improper execution of code due to inadequate input validation and sanitization. Attackers can craft malicious payloads in the url and location parameters that, when processed by the vulnerable add_reg.php script, get executed as PHP code on the server. This creates a persistent threat vector where attackers can establish backdoors, exfiltrate sensitive data, or perform arbitrary operations on the compromised system. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it allows remote code execution without requiring authentication, making it accessible to anyone who can interact with the vulnerable web application.
The operational impact of CVE-2009-2111 extends beyond simple code injection, as it can lead to complete system compromise and data breaches. Successful exploitation enables attackers to execute commands with the privileges of the web server process, potentially allowing them to access sensitive information stored in the database, modify existing website entries, or even deploy additional malware. The vulnerability also facilitates lateral movement within networks if the web server has access to internal resources, as attackers can leverage the compromised system as a pivot point for further reconnaissance and attacks. This makes the vulnerability particularly concerning for organizations that rely on web applications for business-critical operations.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2009-2111 should focus on implementing proper input validation and sanitization techniques as recommended by the OWASP Top Ten and ATT&CK framework. The primary defense mechanism involves validating and sanitizing all user inputs before processing them within the application, particularly for parameters that are later used in dynamic code execution contexts. Implementing prepared statements and parameterized queries can prevent SQL injection attacks that might occur alongside code injection. Organizations should also deploy web application firewalls and input validation rules that can detect and block malicious payloads attempting to exploit this vulnerability. Regular security updates and patches for the DB Top Sites application are essential, as this vulnerability has been known since 2009 and should have been addressed through proper security maintenance procedures. Additionally, implementing proper access controls and network segmentation can limit the potential damage from successful exploitation attempts.