CVE-2012-4971 in Helpbox
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple SQL injection vulnerabilities in Layton Helpbox 4.4.0 allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the (1) reqclass parameter to editrequestenduser.asp; the (2) sys_request_id parameter to editrequestuser.asp; the (3) sys_request_id parameter to enduseractions.asp; the (4) sys_request_id or (5) confirm parameter to enduserreopenrequeststatus.asp; the (6) searchsql, (7) back, or (8) status parameter to enduserrequests.asp; the (9) sys_userpwd parameter to validateenduserlogin.asp; the (10) sys_userpwd parameter to validateuserlogin.asp; the (11) sql parameter to editenduseruser.asp; the (12) sql parameter to manageenduserrequestclasses.asp; the (13) sql parameter to resetpwdenduser.asp; the (14) sql parameter to disableloginenduser.asp; the (15) sql parameter to deleteenduseruser.asp; the (16) sql parameter to manageendusers.asp; or the (17) site parameter to statsrequestagereport.asp.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/24/2019
The CVE-2012-4971 vulnerability represents a critical SQL injection flaw in Layton Helpbox version 4.4.0 that exposes multiple entry points for remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands. This vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and improper parameter handling within the application's web interface, specifically affecting various ASP pages that process user input without sufficient sanitization. The flaw allows attackers to manipulate database queries through multiple parameters across different functionality modules, creating a wide attack surface that could compromise the entire backend database system.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability falls under CWE-89, which specifically addresses SQL injection weaknesses in software applications. The affected parameters span across multiple ASP scripts including editrequestenduser.asp, editrequestuser.asp, enduseractions.asp, enduserreopenrequeststatus.asp, enduserrequests.asp, validateenduserlogin.asp, validateuserlogin.asp, editenduseruser.asp, manageenduserrequestclasses.asp, resetpwdenduser.asp, disableloginenduser.asp, deleteenduseruser.asp, manageendusers.asp, and statsrequestagereport.asp. Each of these parameters processes user-supplied data directly into SQL queries without proper escaping or parameterization, creating predictable injection points that attackers can exploit to bypass authentication, extract sensitive data, modify database contents, or even execute operating system commands through database-specific extensions.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability enables attackers to gain unauthorized access to sensitive user information, including login credentials, personal data, and support request details. The attack surface is particularly concerning as it affects both end-user and administrative functionality within the helpdesk system, potentially allowing privilege escalation attacks that could result in complete system compromise. The vulnerability's persistence across multiple application modules indicates a systemic design flaw in input validation rather than isolated incidents, making it particularly dangerous for organizations relying on this helpdesk solution for critical business operations.
The exploitation of these vulnerabilities aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190, which describes the use of SQL injection to gain access to databases and extract sensitive information. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to perform data exfiltration, modify user accounts, or even establish persistent access through database-level backdoors. The presence of multiple injection points increases the probability of successful exploitation and allows attackers to adapt their approach based on which parameters are more effectively mitigated by existing security controls. Organizations using Layton Helpbox 4.4.0 face significant risk of data breaches, regulatory compliance violations, and potential legal consequences due to the exposure of sensitive information through these unpatched vulnerabilities.
Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including input validation, parameterized queries, and web application firewalls to protect against exploitation attempts. The most effective long-term solution involves upgrading to a patched version of Layton Helpbox or implementing comprehensive input sanitization across all affected ASP scripts. Security teams should also conduct thorough penetration testing to identify any additional vulnerabilities within the application's codebase and establish monitoring protocols to detect potential exploitation attempts. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be implemented to prevent similar issues from occurring in other legacy systems within the organization's infrastructure.