CVE-2009-4560 in WebLeague
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in profile.php in WebLeague 2.2.0 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the name parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/04/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2009-4560 represents a critical SQL injection flaw within the WebLeague 2.2.0 web application, specifically affecting the profile.php script. This vulnerability resides in the handling of user input through the name parameter, which is processed without adequate sanitization or validation before being incorporated into database queries. The flaw enables remote attackers to manipulate the application's database interactions by injecting malicious SQL code through the targeted parameter, potentially leading to unauthorized data access, modification, or deletion.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper input validation and sanitization practices within the WebLeague application. When users submit data through the name parameter in profile.php, the application fails to properly escape or parameterize the input before executing database operations. This lack of input sanitization creates an environment where attackers can inject malicious SQL payloads that are then executed by the database engine. The vulnerability is classified as a classic SQL injection attack vector, where the attacker can manipulate the intended query structure to perform unauthorized database operations.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability presents significant risks to the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the affected system's data. Attackers could potentially extract sensitive information including user credentials, personal data, or administrative details from the database. The remote nature of the exploit means that attackers do not require physical access to the system or network to leverage this vulnerability, making it particularly dangerous. Additionally, successful exploitation could lead to complete database compromise, allowing attackers to modify or delete critical information, escalate privileges, or establish persistent access points within the application environment.
Security professionals should recognize this vulnerability as a variant of CWE-89, which specifically addresses SQL injection flaws in software applications. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this type of vulnerability under the T1190 technique for exploitation of remote services, where attackers target web applications to gain unauthorized access. Mitigation strategies should include implementing proper input validation and parameterized queries, applying the principle of least privilege for database accounts, and conducting regular security assessments of web applications. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls and input sanitization mechanisms to prevent malicious SQL payloads from reaching the database layer. The vulnerability underscores the importance of secure coding practices and demonstrates how seemingly simple input handling can create critical security exposures in web applications.