CVE-2011-5212 in Subrion CMS
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in admin/index.php in Subrion CMS 2.0.4 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the (1) user name or (2) password field.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/18/2025
The CVE-2011-5212 vulnerability represents a critical sql injection flaw within the Subrion CMS 2.0.4 administrative interface, specifically targeting the admin/index.php script. This vulnerability exposes the content management system to remote code execution attacks through improper input validation mechanisms. The flaw affects two primary authentication fields including username and password parameters, creating a significant attack vector for malicious actors seeking unauthorized access to administrative systems. The vulnerability stems from inadequate sanitization of user-supplied input before incorporating it into sql query constructs within the authentication processing flow.
This sql injection vulnerability operates under the common weakness enumeration CWE-89 which classifies it as a direct sql injection attack. The flaw allows attackers to manipulate the sql query execution by injecting malicious sql code through the authentication interface. When user credentials are processed through the vulnerable admin/index.php endpoint, the application fails to properly escape or parameterize input values, enabling attackers to craft malicious payloads that can bypass authentication mechanisms. The attack surface extends beyond simple credential theft as successful exploitation can lead to complete system compromise through sql command execution capabilities.
The operational impact of CVE-2011-5212 is severe and multifaceted within the context of content management systems. Remote attackers can leverage this vulnerability to execute arbitrary sql commands against the underlying database, potentially gaining access to sensitive user data, administrative credentials, and system configuration information. The vulnerability enables attackers to perform data manipulation operations including data extraction, modification, or deletion, which can result in complete system compromise. Additionally, the attack can facilitate privilege escalation within the cms environment, allowing unauthorized users to assume administrative roles and gain full control over the website's content management capabilities.
From an attack framework perspective, this vulnerability aligns with the attack technique T1190 in the mitre att&ck framework which describes exploitation of remote services through sql injection attacks. The vulnerability's impact is particularly concerning given that it affects the administrative interface of a content management system, which typically contains sensitive operational data and provides privileged access to system resources. The attack requires minimal sophistication from threat actors as it targets a well-known sql injection pattern that can be easily automated using existing exploitation frameworks. Organizations utilizing Subrion CMS 2.0.4 are particularly vulnerable due to the widespread adoption of this cms platform and the relatively simple nature of the exploitation technique.
The recommended mitigation strategies for CVE-2011-5212 involve immediate implementation of proper input validation and parameterized queries within the affected application code. Organizations should upgrade to Subrion CMS versions that have addressed this vulnerability through proper sql injection prevention mechanisms. The implementation of web application firewalls and input sanitization controls can provide additional protection layers. Regular security assessments and code reviews should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities within the application's codebase. Database access controls and privilege management should be reviewed to minimize potential damage from successful exploitation attempts. The vulnerability underscores the importance of maintaining current software versions and implementing proper security controls as recommended by industry best practices including owasp top ten and nist cybersecurity framework guidelines.