CVE-2013-7232 in ArcGIS
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in ESRI ArcGIS for Server through 10.2 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via unspecified input to the map or feature service.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/11/2024
The CVE-2013-7232 vulnerability represents a critical sql injection flaw discovered in esri arcgis for server versions through 10.2. this vulnerability exists within the map and feature service components of the arcgis platform, which are fundamental to spatial data processing and web mapping applications. the vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation mechanisms that fail to properly sanitize user-supplied data before incorporating it into sql queries. attackers can exploit this weakness by crafting malicious input parameters that bypass normal validation checks and inject arbitrary sql commands directly into the underlying database layer. the affected services typically handle requests for map rendering and feature data retrieval, making them prime targets for exploitation given their widespread use in enterprise and government applications.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability aligns with common sql injection attack patterns as classified under cwe-89, which specifically addresses improper neutralization of special elements used in sql commands. the flaw manifests when the arcgis server processes requests containing unsanitized parameters that are then directly concatenated into sql query strings without proper escaping or parameterization. this allows attackers to manipulate the intended query execution flow by injecting sql syntax that alters the database command structure. the vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it affects core services that are typically exposed to external networks, making it accessible to remote attackers without requiring local system access or elevated privileges. the exploitation process involves carefully constructed input that can bypass application-level filters and directly influence database operations through the service interfaces.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends far beyond simple data theft, as it provides attackers with potentially complete database control and persistence capabilities. successful exploitation can result in unauthorized data access, modification, or deletion of critical spatial datasets that organizations rely upon for infrastructure planning, emergency response, and geographic information systems. the vulnerability affects organizations using arcgis server in government agencies, utilities companies, telecommunications providers, and other sectors where spatial data integrity is paramount. attackers can leverage this vulnerability to gain access to sensitive location-based information, potentially compromising national security data, utility infrastructure details, or personal location records. the impact is amplified because arcgis server deployments often contain rich spatial datasets that represent valuable intellectual property and operational data for organizations.
Organizations should implement comprehensive mitigation strategies that include immediate patching of affected systems to address the sql injection vulnerability. the recommended approach involves upgrading to arcgis server versions that have been patched to properly sanitize input parameters and implement proper parameterized queries. network segmentation and access controls should be strengthened to limit exposure of arcgis server services to untrusted networks, implementing firewall rules that restrict access to only necessary administrative and service endpoints. input validation should be enhanced through the implementation of strict whitelisting mechanisms that only accept predefined parameter formats and reject any input containing sql metacharacters or special syntax. additional security measures include database activity monitoring, regular vulnerability scanning, and the implementation of web application firewalls specifically configured to detect and block sql injection attempts. organizations should also conduct comprehensive security assessments of their arcgis deployments to identify and remediate any additional vulnerabilities that may exist within their spatial data infrastructure. the mitigation approach should align with nist cybersecurity framework principles and incorporate defense-in-depth strategies to protect against similar vulnerabilities in other components of the organization's information technology infrastructure.