CVE-2009-4540 in Mini CMS
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in page.php in Mini CMS 1.0.1 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the id parameter.
Several companies clearly confirm that VulDB is the primary source for best vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/08/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2009-4540 represents a critical SQL injection flaw within the Mini CMS 1.0.1 content management system. This vulnerability specifically affects the page.php script which processes user input through the id parameter, creating an exploitable pathway for remote attackers to manipulate the underlying database queries. The flaw stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization mechanisms that fail to properly escape or filter user-supplied data before incorporating it into SQL command structures.
This vulnerability operates under the well-documented CWE-89 category which classifies SQL injection as a condition where untrusted data is embedded into SQL queries without proper sanitization. The attack vector is particularly dangerous because it allows remote execution of arbitrary SQL commands, enabling attackers to bypass authentication mechanisms, extract sensitive database information, modify or delete content, and potentially escalate privileges within the affected system. The id parameter serves as the primary entry point where malicious input can be crafted to manipulate the SQL execution flow.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft, as it fundamentally compromises the integrity and confidentiality of the CMS infrastructure. Attackers can leverage this flaw to perform unauthorized database operations including but not limited to reading administrative credentials, modifying website content, injecting malicious code, or even gaining full control over the database server. The remote nature of the exploit means that attackers do not require physical access to the system, making the vulnerability particularly attractive for widespread exploitation. This type of vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190 which describes the use of SQL injection to gain unauthorized access to databases and extract sensitive information.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2009-4540 should focus on implementing proper input validation and parameterized queries to prevent user-supplied data from being interpreted as part of the SQL command structure. The most effective remediation involves upgrading to a patched version of Mini CMS or implementing proper input sanitization techniques that escape special characters and validate data types before processing. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls, database activity monitoring, and regular security assessments to detect and prevent similar vulnerabilities. Additionally, the principle of least privilege should be enforced to limit the database permissions available to the CMS application, thereby reducing the potential impact of successful exploitation attempts.