CVE-2012-4976 in Helpbox
Summary
by MITRE
selectawasset.asp in Layton Helpbox 4.4.0 allows remote attackers to discover ODBC database credentials via an element=sys_asset_id request, which is not properly handled during construction of an error page.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/24/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2012-4976 resides within Layton Helpbox version 4.4.0 and represents a critical information disclosure flaw that exposes database credentials through improper error handling mechanisms. This vulnerability specifically affects the selectawasset.asp component where an attacker can manipulate the element parameter to inject a sys_asset_id value that triggers an error page construction process. The flaw demonstrates poor input validation and error handling practices that ultimately lead to credential exposure.
The technical exploitation occurs when a remote attacker crafts a malicious request containing element=sys_asset_id parameter that causes the application to generate an error page without proper sanitization of the input data. During this error page construction process, the system inadvertently includes ODBC database credentials in the error message output, making them accessible to unauthorized parties. This represents a classic case of improper error handling where sensitive information is leaked through application responses rather than being properly masked or filtered.
From a cybersecurity perspective, this vulnerability aligns with CWE-209, which addresses improper error handling that may expose sensitive information, and CWE-200, which covers information exposure through error messages. The attack vector demonstrates how seemingly innocuous parameter manipulation can lead to significant security breaches when applications fail to properly validate and sanitize user input. The vulnerability operates at the application layer and requires minimal privileges to exploit, making it particularly dangerous in environments where Helpbox is deployed.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple credential exposure, as database credentials provide attackers with direct access to backend systems and potentially sensitive organizational data. Attackers can leverage these exposed credentials to perform unauthorized database operations, extract confidential information, modify system configurations, or establish persistent access points. The vulnerability affects organizations using Layton Helpbox 4.4.0 who may be unaware of the credential exposure until an attacker exploits it, potentially leading to data breaches, system compromise, and regulatory compliance violations.
Mitigation strategies should focus on implementing proper input validation and error handling mechanisms within the affected application. Organizations must ensure that all user-supplied parameters are properly sanitized before being processed or displayed in error messages. The recommended approach includes implementing strict parameter validation, using secure error handling that does not expose internal system information, and conducting thorough security testing to identify similar vulnerabilities. Additionally, applying the vendor-provided security patches or upgrading to newer versions of Layton Helpbox that address this specific flaw should be prioritized. Network segmentation and monitoring for unusual parameter patterns can also help detect exploitation attempts, while implementing principle of least privilege for database connections reduces the potential impact of credential exposure. This vulnerability serves as a reminder of the importance of secure coding practices and proper error handling in preventing information disclosure attacks that can compromise entire systems.