CVE-2012-2695 in Ruby on Rails
Summary
by MITRE
The Active Record component in Ruby on Rails before 3.0.14, 3.1.x before 3.1.6, and 3.2.x before 3.2.6 does not properly implement the passing of request data to a where method in an ActiveRecord class, which allows remote attackers to conduct certain SQL injection attacks via nested query parameters that leverage improper handling of nested hashes, a related issue to CVE-2012-2661.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/05/2021
The vulnerability described in CVE-2012-2695 represents a critical SQL injection flaw within the Active Record component of Ruby on Rails framework versions prior to specific patch releases. This security weakness stems from improper handling of nested query parameters when passing request data to the where method in ActiveRecord classes, creating a pathway for remote attackers to execute malicious SQL commands against affected applications. The vulnerability specifically impacts versions before 3.0.14, 3.1.x before 3.1.6, and 3.2.x before 3.2.6, making it a widespread concern across multiple Rails release branches. The flaw operates by exploiting the framework's inadequate sanitization of nested hash structures that are commonly used in complex database queries, allowing attackers to inject malicious SQL fragments that bypass normal input validation mechanisms.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability leverages the way Rails processes nested parameters in HTTP requests, particularly when these parameters are passed through the where method of ActiveRecord models. When developers construct database queries using nested hash structures to represent complex conditions, the framework fails to properly escape or validate the nested elements, creating opportunities for attackers to manipulate the resulting SQL queries. This issue is categorized under CWE-89 as SQL injection, with specific characteristics that align with CWE-77 and CWE-78, as it involves improper handling of user-supplied data that gets directly incorporated into database commands. The vulnerability's relationship to CVE-2012-2661 demonstrates a pattern of similar weaknesses in Rails' parameter handling mechanisms, indicating a systemic issue in how the framework processes nested data structures.
The operational impact of CVE-2012-2695 extends beyond simple data theft, as successful exploitation can lead to complete database compromise, unauthorized data modification, and potential system escalation. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to extract sensitive information from databases, modify or delete records, and potentially gain deeper access to underlying systems. The vulnerability affects applications that utilize complex query structures with nested parameters, which is common in modern web applications that require sophisticated filtering and searching capabilities. Organizations running affected Rails versions face significant risk exposure, particularly those with applications that process user input through database queries. The remote nature of the attack means that exploitation can occur from any location without requiring physical access to the target system, making it particularly dangerous in cloud and web-based environments where applications are accessible over the internet.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2012-2695 focus primarily on immediate version upgrades to patched Rails releases, specifically updating to versions 3.0.14, 3.1.6, or 3.2.6 respectively. Organizations should implement comprehensive patch management procedures to ensure all Rails applications are updated promptly. Additionally, developers should adopt defensive programming practices such as using parameterized queries, implementing proper input validation, and avoiding direct concatenation of user input into SQL statements. Security teams should conduct thorough code reviews focusing on Active Record query methods and parameter handling, particularly examining areas where nested hash structures are processed. The vulnerability's characteristics align with ATT&CK technique T1071.004 for application layer protocol usage, where attackers leverage web application vulnerabilities to execute malicious SQL commands. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems to monitor for exploitation attempts, while maintaining detailed logging of database query activities to detect anomalous patterns that may indicate successful attacks.