CVE-2013-5965 in Node View Permissions
Summary
by MITRE
The Node View Permissions module 7.x-1.x before 7.x-1.2 for Drupal does not properly implement the hook_query_alter function, which might allow remote attackers to obtain sensitive information by reading a node listing.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/28/2018
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2013-5965 affects the Node View Permissions module version 7.x-1.x before 7.x-1.2 within the Drupal content management system. This security flaw resides in the improper implementation of the hook_query_alter function, which serves as a critical mechanism for altering database queries in Drupal's hook system. The module's failure to correctly implement this hook creates a significant information disclosure vulnerability that can be exploited by remote attackers to gain unauthorized access to node listings.
The technical flaw stems from the module's inadequate handling of query alterations that should normally enforce proper access controls and permission checks when users attempt to view node listings. When hook_query_alter is not properly implemented, it allows attackers to bypass the intended permission restrictions that should prevent users from viewing content they do not have access to. This misimplementation creates a direct pathway for unauthorized information disclosure where malicious actors can construct queries that retrieve node data without proper authentication or authorization checks.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure to potentially expose sensitive content that should remain restricted to authorized users only. Attackers can leverage this flaw to enumerate nodes across different content types and access levels, potentially discovering confidential information, unpublished content, or restricted resources that would normally be protected by Drupal's permission system. The vulnerability affects any Drupal installation using the affected version of the Node View Permissions module, making it particularly dangerous in environments where multiple users with varying permission levels interact with the system.
This vulnerability aligns with CWE-200, which addresses improper information disclosure, and demonstrates characteristics consistent with ATT&CK technique T1213, specifically data from information repositories. The flaw represents a classic case of insufficient access control enforcement where the module fails to properly validate user permissions during query execution. Organizations should prioritize immediate patching of this vulnerability through the official Drupal module updates, ensuring that the Node View Permissions module is upgraded to version 7.x-1.2 or later. Additionally, administrators should review their current module configurations and implement proper access control policies to minimize the risk of exploitation while maintaining system functionality and security posture.