CVE-2009-4720 in gnudip
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in cgi-bin/gnudip.cgi in GnuDIP 2.1.1 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the username parameter. NOTE: some of these details are obtained from third party information.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/02/2026
The CVE-2009-4720 vulnerability represents a critical SQL injection flaw in the GnuDIP 2.1.1 web application, specifically within the cgi-bin/gnudip.cgi script. This vulnerability exposes the application to remote code execution attacks through improper input validation of the username parameter. The flaw allows malicious actors to inject arbitrary SQL commands into the database query processing pipeline, potentially enabling full database compromise and unauthorized access to sensitive information. GnuDIP is a web-based geographical information system that maps IP addresses to geographical locations, making it a target for attackers seeking to exploit its database connectivity features.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from insufficient sanitization of user-supplied input within the username parameter handling code. When the application processes a request containing a specially crafted username value, it directly incorporates this input into SQL query construction without proper escaping or parameterization. This design flaw aligns with CWE-89, which categorizes SQL injection vulnerabilities as weaknesses in software that allows attackers to manipulate database queries through untrusted input. The vulnerability exists at the application layer where user input transitions into database query execution, creating a direct pathway for attackers to bypass authentication mechanisms and execute malicious database commands.
The operational impact of CVE-2009-4720 extends beyond simple data theft, as it provides attackers with the capability to perform complete database manipulation including data extraction, modification, and deletion. An attacker could potentially escalate privileges, gain access to user accounts, or even compromise the entire database server infrastructure. The remote nature of this vulnerability means that attackers do not require local system access or physical proximity to exploit the flaw, making it particularly dangerous for web applications. This vulnerability also aligns with ATT&CK technique T1071.004, which describes application layer protocol manipulation, and T1190, which covers exploitation of remote services through injection attacks.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability involve immediate implementation of proper input validation and parameterized queries to prevent SQL injection attacks. Organizations should ensure that all user inputs are properly sanitized and escaped before being incorporated into database queries. The recommended fix includes implementing prepared statements or parameterized queries that separate SQL command structure from data values, effectively neutralizing the injection threat. Additionally, the application should be updated to a patched version of GnuDIP that addresses this specific vulnerability, as the original 2.1.1 release contains known security flaws that have been documented in security advisories. Network segmentation and web application firewalls can provide additional defense-in-depth measures, while regular security assessments and code reviews should be implemented to prevent similar vulnerabilities in future development cycles. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of following secure coding practices and adhering to industry standards such as those outlined in the OWASP Top Ten project to prevent common injection attack vectors.