CVE-2010-1868 in PHP
Summary
by MITRE
The (1) sqlite_single_query and (2) sqlite_array_query functions in ext/sqlite/sqlite.c in PHP 5.2 through 5.2.13 and 5.3 through 5.3.2 allow context-dependent attackers to execute arbitrary code by calling these functions with an empty SQL query, which triggers access of uninitialized memory.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/13/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2010-1868 represents a critical memory corruption flaw within PHP's SQLite extension that has significant implications for web application security. This vulnerability affects PHP versions ranging from 5.2.0 through 5.2.13 and 5.3.0 through 5.3.2, making it a widespread concern for systems running these older versions. The flaw manifests specifically within the sqlite_single_query and sqlite_array_query functions located in the ext/sqlite/sqlite.c file of the PHP source code, where improper handling of empty SQL queries creates exploitable conditions that can be leveraged by malicious actors.
The technical nature of this vulnerability stems from the improper memory management when these SQLite functions process empty SQL queries. When an attacker provides an empty query string to either of these functions, the code fails to properly validate the input before attempting to execute operations on uninitialized memory locations. This creates a scenario where memory that has not been properly allocated or initialized is accessed, leading to undefined behavior that can be exploited to execute arbitrary code on the affected system. The vulnerability operates under the context-dependent attack model, meaning that successful exploitation requires specific conditions to be met, typically involving the ability to control the input parameters passed to these functions.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it can potentially allow attackers to gain full control over the affected web server. Since PHP is commonly used in web applications that process user input through database queries, an attacker who can manipulate the parameters passed to these SQLite functions could theoretically execute malicious code with the privileges of the web server process. This could lead to complete system compromise, data exfiltration, or further lateral movement within a network infrastructure. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-457, which describes the use of uninitialized variables, and represents a classic example of how improper input validation can lead to memory corruption exploits.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2010-1868 primarily focus on immediate version upgrades to patched PHP releases, as this vulnerability was resolved in subsequent PHP versions. Organizations should prioritize updating their PHP installations to versions 5.2.14, 5.3.3, or later, which contain the necessary code modifications to properly handle empty SQL queries. Additionally, implementing input validation measures at the application level can provide defense-in-depth protection, ensuring that any SQL queries passed to these functions are properly validated before execution. Network-level protections such as web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems can also help detect and prevent exploitation attempts. From an ATT&CK framework perspective, this vulnerability maps to techniques involving command and control communication and privilege escalation, as successful exploitation can enable attackers to execute arbitrary commands and potentially elevate their privileges within the affected system.