CVE-2012-3477 in NeoInvoice
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in signup_check.php in NeoInvoice allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the value parameter in a username action.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/15/2019
The CVE-2012-3477 vulnerability represents a critical sql injection flaw within the NeoInvoice web application that specifically targets the signup_check.php script. This vulnerability arises from inadequate input validation and sanitization mechanisms within the username parameter handling functionality, creating an exploitable entry point for malicious actors to manipulate the underlying database operations. The vulnerability is classified under the CWE-89 category, which specifically addresses sql injection weaknesses in software applications where user-supplied data is directly incorporated into sql command construction without proper sanitization or parameterization.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker submits maliciously crafted input through the value parameter in the username action of the signup_check.php endpoint. The application fails to properly validate or escape the incoming data before incorporating it into sql queries, allowing attackers to inject malicious sql code that executes with the privileges of the database user account. This flaw enables attackers to perform unauthorized database operations including data extraction, modification, deletion, and potentially gaining elevated privileges within the database system. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous as it exists within the registration or user validation process, making it accessible to anyone with access to the web application without requiring authentication.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data compromise, as it provides attackers with the capability to manipulate user accounts, extract sensitive information, and potentially establish persistent access within the application environment. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to enumerate database schemas, extract user credentials, modify existing user records, or even inject malicious code that could compromise the entire application infrastructure. The vulnerability affects the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the NeoInvoice system, potentially leading to complete system compromise and unauthorized access to all user data stored within the database. This type of vulnerability aligns with attack patterns documented in the mitre att&ck framework under the initial access and execution phases, where adversaries establish footholds through application-level vulnerabilities.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2012-3477 should focus on implementing proper input validation and parameterized queries throughout the application codebase. The most effective remediation involves replacing direct sql concatenation with prepared statements or parameterized queries that separate user input from sql command structure. Organizations should also implement proper input sanitization routines, employ web application firewalls, and conduct regular security code reviews to identify similar vulnerabilities. Additionally, the principle of least privilege should be enforced by ensuring database accounts used by the application have minimal required permissions, limiting the potential damage from successful exploitation. Regular security updates and vulnerability assessments should be implemented to prevent similar issues from emerging in the future. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of secure coding practices and input validation as outlined in owasp top ten security risks, particularly the sql injection category that consistently ranks among the most prevalent web application security flaws.