CVE-2010-3423 in Yr Verdata
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in the Yr Weatherdata module for Drupal 6.x before 6.x-1.6 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the sorting method.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/05/2018
The CVE-2010-3423 vulnerability represents a critical SQL injection flaw within the Yr Weatherdata module for Drupal 6.x versions prior to 6.x-1.6. This vulnerability exposes the web application to remote code execution through maliciously crafted SQL commands that can be injected via the sorting method parameter. The issue stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization within the module's handling of user-supplied data, creating an exploitable pathway for attackers to manipulate database queries. The vulnerability specifically affects the Yr Weatherdata module which integrates weather information from the Norwegian Meteorological Institute into Drupal-based websites, making it particularly concerning for organizations relying on weather data displays.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs when the module processes sorting parameters for weather data displays without proper sanitization of user inputs. Attackers can manipulate the sorting method parameter to inject malicious SQL payloads that bypass normal input validation mechanisms. This flaw aligns with CWE-89, which categorizes SQL injection vulnerabilities as a direct result of improper handling of untrusted data in database queries. The vulnerability operates at the application layer where user inputs are directly incorporated into SQL commands without adequate escaping or parameterization, allowing attackers to execute arbitrary database operations including data retrieval, modification, or deletion. The attack vector is particularly dangerous as it requires no authentication and can be executed remotely through web interface interactions.
The operational impact of CVE-2010-3423 extends beyond simple data theft, as successful exploitation can lead to complete database compromise and potential system takeover. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to extract sensitive information from the Drupal database, including user credentials, configuration data, and other confidential information. The vulnerability also enables privilege escalation attacks where attackers can modify database records to gain administrative access or disrupt service availability. Organizations running affected Drupal installations face significant risk of data breaches, regulatory compliance violations, and potential reputational damage. The impact is particularly severe for websites that store personal information or sensitive business data, as the vulnerability can be exploited without requiring any prior access credentials.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2010-3423 should prioritize immediate patching of the Yr Weatherdata module to version 6.x-1.6 or later, which contains proper input validation and sanitization mechanisms. Organizations should implement comprehensive input validation at multiple layers including application-level filtering, database query parameterization, and web application firewalls to detect and block malicious SQL injection attempts. Network segmentation and access control measures can help limit the potential impact of successful exploitation by restricting database access privileges. Security monitoring should include detection of unusual database query patterns and unauthorized data access attempts. Additionally, implementing the principle of least privilege for database accounts and regular security audits can significantly reduce the attack surface and potential damage from exploitation attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of keeping third-party modules updated and following secure coding practices as outlined in the OWASP Top Ten and NIST cybersecurity guidelines.