CVE-2009-2164 in mailman
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple SQL injection vulnerabilities in Kjtechforce mailman beta1, when magic_quotes_gpc is disabled, allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via (1) the code parameter to activate.php or (2) the dest parameter to index.php.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/01/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2009-2164 represents a critical SQL injection flaw affecting Kjtechforce mailman beta1 software. This vulnerability specifically manifests when the PHP configuration directive magic_quotes_gpc is disabled, creating a dangerous environment where malicious input can be directly translated into database commands without proper sanitization. The flaw exists in two distinct attack vectors within the application's codebase, making it particularly dangerous as it provides multiple pathways for exploitation. The vulnerability's severity is amplified by the fact that it operates in an environment where input validation is not properly enforced, allowing attackers to craft malicious SQL payloads that bypass normal security measures.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper input handling within the application's core functionality. When the code parameter in activate.php and the dest parameter in index.php receive user-supplied input without adequate sanitization or parameterization, attackers can inject malicious SQL code that executes within the database context. This occurs because the application directly incorporates user input into SQL query construction without proper escaping or prepared statement usage. The vulnerability maps directly to CWE-89 which defines SQL injection as the insertion of malicious SQL code into input fields for execution by the database. The flaw demonstrates a classic lack of input validation and output encoding practices that are fundamental to preventing injection attacks in web applications.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability presents significant risk to organizations using the affected mailman software as it allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands on the underlying database system. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to extract sensitive data, modify database contents, escalate privileges, or potentially gain full control over the database server. The remote nature of the attack means that adversaries do not require physical access to the system or local network connectivity to exploit the vulnerability, making it particularly dangerous for internet-facing applications. The impact extends beyond simple data theft as attackers could potentially use this access to establish persistent backdoors, modify application logic, or compromise other systems that share the same database infrastructure.
The exploitation of this vulnerability aligns with several tactics described in the MITRE ATT&CK framework, particularly those related to command and control operations and credential access. Attackers can use the SQL injection to gather intelligence about the database schema, extract user credentials, and potentially move laterally within the network infrastructure. The vulnerability also represents a common entry point for attackers seeking to establish persistent access, as demonstrated by the typical attack patterns documented in various security advisories. Organizations should consider implementing network segmentation, database access controls, and regular security assessments to mitigate the risk of exploitation. The recommended mitigations include enabling magic_quotes_gpc, implementing proper input validation and parameterized queries, and conducting regular security code reviews to identify similar vulnerabilities across the application codebase.
The broader implications of this vulnerability extend to the overall security posture of web applications that fail to implement proper input validation. The flaw demonstrates the critical importance of defensive programming practices and the dangers of relying on server configuration settings for security enforcement. Organizations should adopt comprehensive security frameworks that include regular vulnerability assessments, secure coding practices, and continuous monitoring for similar injection vulnerabilities. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of keeping software updated and patched, as the affected mailman version represents a beta release that may have contained additional security flaws. Proper security awareness training for developers is essential to prevent similar issues in future application development cycles, emphasizing the need for input validation, output encoding, and the use of secure coding practices throughout the software development lifecycle.