CVE-2012-0069 in Batavi
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in ajax.php in Batavi before 1.2.1 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the boxToReload parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/13/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2012-0069 represents a critical SQL injection flaw within the Batavi content management system prior to version 1.2.1. This vulnerability specifically affects the ajax.php script which handles asynchronous requests within the application. The flaw arises from insufficient input validation and sanitization of user-supplied data, particularly concerning the boxToReload parameter that is processed without proper security controls. The vulnerability falls under the CWE-89 category, which specifically addresses SQL injection attacks where untrusted data is directly incorporated into SQL command strings without adequate escaping or parameterization.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when remote attackers manipulate the boxToReload parameter in HTTP requests sent to the ajax.php endpoint. This parameter is used to determine which content boxes should be reloaded on the web page, but due to the lack of proper input filtering, malicious SQL commands can be injected and subsequently executed within the database context. Attackers can leverage this flaw to perform unauthorized database operations including data extraction, modification, or deletion, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The vulnerability demonstrates poor input validation practices that align with ATT&CK technique T1071.004 for application layer protocol manipulation and T1190 for exploitation of remote services.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft, as successful exploitation can result in complete database compromise and potential lateral movement within the network infrastructure. Attackers can use the SQL injection to escalate privileges, access sensitive user information, modify application behavior, or even establish persistent backdoors within the system. The vulnerability affects the integrity and confidentiality of all data stored within the Batavi application's database, making it a critical security concern for any organization utilizing this platform. Organizations may face regulatory compliance violations and significant reputational damage if such vulnerabilities remain unpatched, particularly in environments handling sensitive personal or financial information.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2012-0069 require immediate implementation of the vendor-provided patch version 1.2.1 or later, which addresses the input validation issues in the ajax.php script. System administrators should also implement proper input sanitization measures including parameterized queries, input validation, and output encoding to prevent similar vulnerabilities from occurring in other parts of the application. Additional defensive measures include implementing web application firewalls, conducting regular security assessments, and establishing proper database access controls. The vulnerability highlights the importance of following secure coding practices and adhering to OWASP Top Ten security guidelines, particularly focusing on input validation and proper database interaction methodologies. Organizations should also consider implementing database activity monitoring and intrusion detection systems to identify potential exploitation attempts and provide early warning capabilities against similar vulnerabilities.