CVE-2012-3873 in Openconstructor
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple SQL injection vulnerabilities in Open Constructor 3.12.0 allow remote authenticated users to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the id parameter to (1) data/gallery/edit.php, (2) data/guestbook/edit.php, (3) data/file/edit.php, (4) data/htmltext/edit.php, (5) data/publication/edit.php, or (6) data/event/edit.php.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/21/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2012-3873 represents a critical security flaw in Open Constructor version 3.12.0, specifically targeting multiple file management components within the application's administrative interface. This issue manifests as multiple sql injection vulnerabilities that affect various data editing modules including gallery, guestbook, file, htmltext, publication, and event management functionalities. The vulnerability occurs when the application fails to properly sanitize user input passed through the id parameter, creating an exploitable condition that allows malicious actors to inject arbitrary sql commands into the database layer.
The technical flaw stems from inadequate input validation and parameter sanitization within the application's data handling mechanisms. When authenticated users access the administrative interface and manipulate the id parameter in the specified php files, the application directly incorporates these parameters into sql query constructions without proper escaping or parameterization. This classic sql injection vulnerability falls under the CWE-89 category, which specifically addresses improper neutralization of special elements used in sql commands. The vulnerability exists across multiple attack vectors, making it particularly dangerous as it provides multiple entry points for exploitation within the same application framework.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability presents a severe risk to organizations using Open Constructor 3.12.0, as it allows remote authenticated users to execute arbitrary sql commands against the underlying database. Attackers can leverage this weakness to extract sensitive data, modify database contents, delete records, or potentially escalate privileges within the application environment. The fact that the vulnerability requires only authenticated access means that it could be exploited by compromised user accounts or insider threats, making it particularly concerning for organizations with weak access controls. The impact extends beyond simple data theft, as attackers could potentially gain deeper system access or disrupt critical business operations through database manipulation.
The exploitation of this vulnerability aligns with several tactics outlined in the attack framework, particularly those involving credential compromise and privilege escalation. According to ATT&CK framework, this scenario would fall under credential access and privilege escalation techniques where attackers leverage authenticated sessions to gain unauthorized database access. Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including input validation, parameterized queries, and proper access controls. The most effective remediation involves updating to a patched version of Open Constructor, implementing proper sql query parameterization, and conducting comprehensive security testing of all input handling mechanisms. Additionally, network segmentation and monitoring of database access patterns should be implemented to detect potential exploitation attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper input validation and the potential consequences of failing to implement secure coding practices in web applications.