CVE-2012-1656 in Multisite Search
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in the Multisite Search module 6.x-2.2 for Drupal allows remote authenticated users with certain permissions to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the Site table prefix field.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/07/2018
The CVE-2012-1656 vulnerability represents a critical SQL injection flaw within the Multisite Search module version 6.x-2.2 for the Drupal content management system. This vulnerability specifically targets the Site table prefix field within the module's configuration interface, creating a pathway for malicious actors to manipulate database queries through crafted input. The vulnerability exists in the context of Drupal's multi-site architecture where administrators can configure search parameters across multiple sites within a single installation. The affected module version demonstrates a classic input validation failure that has been documented under CWE-89, which classifies SQL injection as a persistent weakness in software systems. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it requires only authenticated access with specific permissions rather than administrative privileges, making it exploitable by users with limited access rights within the system.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper sanitization of user-supplied input in the Site table prefix field. When administrators configure the multisite search functionality, the module fails to adequately escape or validate the prefix parameter before incorporating it into database queries. This allows attackers to inject malicious SQL code that executes with the privileges of the web application's database user. The attack vector operates through the module's configuration interface where legitimate users with appropriate permissions can modify the site table prefix value. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1071.004, which covers application layer protocol manipulation, and specifically targets the database layer through SQL injection methods. The flaw demonstrates a failure in input validation and output encoding practices that are fundamental to preventing injection attacks.
The operational impact of CVE-2012-1656 extends beyond simple data theft to encompass complete database compromise and potential system infiltration. Successful exploitation could enable attackers to extract sensitive information including user credentials, configuration data, and content from the Drupal installation. The vulnerability's remote nature means that attackers do not require physical access to the system, and the authenticated requirement merely necessitates a foothold within the application's user base. Depending on the database user privileges, attackers might gain access to additional systems or escalate their access to perform more severe operations such as privilege escalation or data manipulation. The vulnerability affects organizations running Drupal 6.x with the specific module version, creating a persistent security risk that could remain undetected for extended periods.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2012-1656 should focus on immediate patching and configuration hardening. The primary remediation involves upgrading to a patched version of the Multisite Search module or upgrading to a supported Drupal version that addresses this vulnerability. Organizations should also implement input validation controls at the application level to prevent malformed data from reaching database queries. Network segmentation and least privilege access controls can limit the potential impact of exploitation by restricting access to the vulnerable module's configuration interface. Additionally, implementing database query monitoring and logging can help detect anomalous SQL activity that may indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability highlights the importance of regular security assessments and the necessity of maintaining up-to-date software components. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems to monitor for exploitation attempts targeting known vulnerabilities in content management systems.