CVE-2012-4743 in Siche search module
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple SQL injection vulnerabilities in ssearch.php in Siche search module 0.5 for Zeroboard allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the (1) ss, (2) sm, (3) align, or (4) category parameters.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/29/2018
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2012-4743 represents a critical SQL injection flaw within the ssearch.php script of the Siche search module version 0.5 for Zeroboard platforms. This vulnerability exposes the system to remote code execution risks through four distinct parameter injection points including ss, sm, align, and category parameters. The affected software architecture demonstrates inadequate input validation and sanitization mechanisms that permit malicious actors to manipulate database queries through crafted user input. Such vulnerabilities fall under the CWE-89 category of SQL Injection, which is classified as a high-severity weakness in the Common Weakness Enumeration framework.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when remote attackers submit malicious payloads through the specified parameters in the ssearch.php script. These parameters are directly incorporated into SQL query construction without proper sanitization or parameterization, creating opportunities for attackers to inject arbitrary SQL commands. The attack vector operates through HTTP requests that target the vulnerable search functionality, allowing unauthorized individuals to bypass authentication mechanisms, extract sensitive data, modify database contents, or potentially gain full system control. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1071.004 for application layer protocol manipulation and T1046 for network service discovery.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data compromise to encompass complete system integrity breaches. Attackers can leverage the SQL injection to perform unauthorized database operations including data exfiltration, privilege escalation, and persistent backdoor installation. The Zeroboard platform, being a web-based content management system, becomes vulnerable to widespread compromise when this search module is utilized. The consequences include potential exposure of user credentials, personal information, and system configuration details. Organizations running affected versions face significant risk of data breaches and regulatory compliance violations, particularly in environments governed by standards such as pci dss and gdpr.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2012-4743 require immediate implementation of parameterized queries and input validation measures. The primary defense involves sanitizing all user inputs through proper escaping mechanisms and implementing prepared statements to prevent SQL injection attacks. Security patches should be applied immediately to upgrade the Siche search module to versions that address these vulnerabilities. Network segmentation and web application firewalls can provide additional layers of protection by monitoring and filtering malicious traffic patterns. Regular security assessments and code reviews should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other components of the web application stack, with particular attention to legacy systems that may contain outdated security practices. Organizations should also implement automated vulnerability scanning tools to detect and remediate similar injection vulnerabilities across their infrastructure.