CVE-2011-0646 in PHP LOW BIDS
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in viewfaqs.php in PHP LOW BIDS allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the cat parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/01/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2011-0646 represents a critical sql injection flaw within the PHP LOW BIDS application's viewfaqs.php script. This vulnerability specifically targets the cat parameter, which serves as an entry point for malicious input that can be exploited by remote attackers to execute arbitrary sql commands. The flaw resides in the application's improper handling of user-supplied input, where the cat parameter is directly incorporated into sql query construction without adequate sanitization or parameterization. This allows attackers to manipulate the sql execution flow by injecting malicious sql code through the cat parameter, potentially gaining unauthorized access to the underlying database system. The vulnerability operates at the application layer and can be exploited from remote locations without requiring authentication or privileged access, making it particularly dangerous for web applications that process user input.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the application's failure to employ proper input validation and sql query parameterization techniques. When the cat parameter is submitted through the viewfaqs.php script, the application directly concatenates this input into sql statements without proper sanitization mechanisms. This violates fundamental security principles outlined in cwe-89, which specifically addresses sql injection vulnerabilities. The vulnerability can be categorized under the broader attack pattern described in the mitre att&ck framework within the initial access and execution phases, where adversaries establish footholds and execute malicious code. The flaw demonstrates a classic example of insecure data handling practices where user input flows directly into sql command construction, creating opportunities for attackers to manipulate database queries and potentially extract sensitive information, modify data, or even execute administrative commands on the database server.
The operational impact of CVE-2011-0646 extends beyond simple data exposure, as it can enable comprehensive database compromise and unauthorized system access. Successful exploitation allows attackers to perform unauthorized data retrieval, modification, or deletion operations against the vulnerable database, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The vulnerability affects the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the targeted system, as attackers can access sensitive information stored in the database or disrupt normal operations through data manipulation. In enterprise environments, this vulnerability could lead to significant financial losses, regulatory compliance violations, and reputational damage when sensitive customer data, transaction records, or business-critical information becomes accessible to unauthorized parties. The remote exploitability of this vulnerability means that attackers can target the application from anywhere on the internet, making it particularly attractive for automated scanning and exploitation campaigns.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2011-0646 must focus on implementing robust input validation, parameterized queries, and proper sql injection prevention techniques. Organizations should immediately implement prepared statements or parameterized queries to ensure that user input cannot alter the intended sql command structure. The application code must be updated to validate and sanitize all input parameters, particularly those used in database operations, with strict type checking and length restrictions. Additionally, implementing web application firewalls and input filtering mechanisms can provide additional layers of protection against sql injection attempts. Security practices should include regular code reviews, automated vulnerability scanning, and database access controls to limit the potential impact of any successful exploitation. The remediation efforts should align with industry standards such as owasp top ten and iso 27001 security requirements, ensuring that the application follows secure coding practices and maintains proper input validation controls. Regular security training for development teams and implementation of secure development lifecycle practices are essential to prevent similar vulnerabilities in future application versions.