CVE-2013-4789 in Cotonti Siena
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in modules/rss/rss.php in Cotonti before 0.9.14 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the "c" parameter to index.php.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/24/2024
The CVE-2013-4789 vulnerability represents a critical sql injection flaw discovered in the Cotonti content management system prior to version 0.9.14. This vulnerability specifically affects the rss module's rss.php file and exposes the system to remote code execution through improper input validation. The flaw occurs when the application fails to adequately sanitize user-supplied data passed through the "c" parameter in the index.php script, creating an exploitable pathway for malicious actors to inject arbitrary sql commands into the backend database operations.
The technical nature of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-89, which categorizes sql injection as a fundamental weakness in application input validation. The vulnerability operates by allowing an attacker to manipulate the rss module's parameter handling mechanism, where the "c" parameter serves as an entry point for sql command injection. When the application processes this parameter without proper sanitization or parameterization, it directly incorporates user input into sql query construction, enabling attackers to manipulate database queries and potentially gain unauthorized access to sensitive information or execute administrative commands.
The operational impact of CVE-2013-4789 extends beyond simple data theft, as it provides attackers with the capability to perform complete database compromise. Remote attackers can leverage this vulnerability to extract confidential user data, modify or delete database records, escalate privileges within the application, or even establish persistent backdoors through database access. The vulnerability's remote exploitability means that attackers do not require physical access to the system or local network privileges, making it particularly dangerous for web applications that are publicly accessible. This threat level is consistent with ATT&CK technique T1190, which describes the exploitation of remote services through injection attacks.
The remediation strategy for this vulnerability requires immediate implementation of input validation and parameterized queries throughout the Cotonti application codebase. System administrators should upgrade to Cotonti version 0.9.14 or later, which includes proper sanitization mechanisms for the affected rss module. Additionally, implementing web application firewalls, input filtering, and regular security audits can provide defense-in-depth measures against similar vulnerabilities. Organizations should also consider applying the principle of least privilege to database connections and implementing proper error handling to prevent information disclosure that could aid further exploitation attempts. The vulnerability underscores the critical importance of secure coding practices and regular security assessments in preventing sql injection attacks that could compromise entire web applications and their underlying data repositories.