CVE-2009-4561 in WebLeague
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple SQL injection vulnerabilities in Admin/index.php in WebLeague 2.2.0, when magic_quotes_gpc is disabled, allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the (1) username and (2) password parameters.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/04/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2009-4561 represents a critical SQL injection flaw within the WebLeague 2.2.0 web application, specifically targeting the Admin/index.php component. This vulnerability exploits a fundamental weakness in input validation and query construction processes that occurs when the PHP configuration parameter magic_quotes_gpc is disabled. The affected application fails to properly sanitize user-supplied input before incorporating it into database queries, creating an exploitable condition that can be leveraged by remote attackers to gain unauthorized access to the underlying database system.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the application's insecure handling of authentication credentials through the username and password parameters. When magic_quotes_gpc is disabled, PHP does not automatically escape special characters in GET, POST, and COOKIE data, leaving the application susceptible to injection attacks. Attackers can manipulate these parameters by inserting malicious SQL syntax that bypasses normal authentication mechanisms and directly influences the database query execution flow. The vulnerability specifically affects the authentication process where user credentials are processed through the Admin/index.php script, allowing attackers to craft SQL commands that can manipulate the database to either bypass authentication entirely or extract sensitive information from the backend database.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized access to encompass potential data breaches, privilege escalation, and complete system compromise. Remote attackers can exploit these injection points to execute arbitrary SQL commands, potentially leading to unauthorized data modification, deletion, or extraction. The vulnerability creates a pathway for attackers to escalate privileges within the application and gain deeper access to the underlying database infrastructure. This type of vulnerability directly aligns with CWE-89 which categorizes SQL injection as a serious weakness in software applications where untrusted data is incorporated into SQL queries without proper sanitization or parameterization. The attack vector is particularly dangerous because it requires no local access or authentication, making it a prime target for automated exploitation tools.
The security implications of CVE-2009-4561 align with several ATT&CK framework techniques including T1190 for exploit public-facing applications and T1078 for valid accounts. The vulnerability demonstrates a classic example of inadequate input validation that violates fundamental security principles for web application development. Organizations running WebLeague 2.2.0 without proper input sanitization measures face significant risk of data compromise and unauthorized system access. The lack of proper parameterized queries or input validation mechanisms creates an environment where attackers can manipulate the application's database interaction logic. Mitigation strategies should include immediate implementation of parameterized queries, enabling magic_quotes_gpc or implementing equivalent input sanitization measures, and conducting comprehensive code reviews to identify similar vulnerabilities throughout the application. Additionally, network segmentation and database access controls should be implemented to limit the potential impact of successful exploitation attempts. The vulnerability underscores the critical importance of proper input validation and secure coding practices as outlined in industry standards such as OWASP Top Ten and NIST cybersecurity guidelines for preventing injection attacks.