CVE-2014-2081 in vtls-Virtua
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple SQL injection vulnerabilities in the login in web_reports/cgi-bin/InfoStation.cgi in Innovative vtls-Virtua before 2013.2.4 and 2014.x before 2014.1.1 allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the (1) username or (2) password parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/20/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2014-2081 represents a critical SQL injection flaw affecting the vtls-Virtua software suite, specifically within the web_reports/cgi-bin/InfoStation.cgi component. This vulnerability exists in versions prior to 2013.2.4 and 2014.x prior to 2014.1.1, exposing systems to significant remote exploitation risks. The flaw manifests in the authentication handling mechanism where user credentials are processed without adequate input sanitization, creating pathways for malicious actors to manipulate database queries through crafted input parameters.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper parameter validation within the login functionality of the InfoStation.cgi script. Attackers can exploit this weakness by injecting malicious SQL code through either the username or password parameters during the authentication process. When these parameters are directly incorporated into SQL queries without proper escaping or parameterization, the system becomes vulnerable to unauthorized data access and manipulation. This vulnerability maps directly to CWE-89, which specifically addresses SQL injection flaws in software applications where user-supplied data is improperly integrated into database queries.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft, as successful exploitation enables attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands against the underlying database system. This capability allows for complete database enumeration, data modification, deletion, and potentially system compromise through database-level attacks. The remote nature of the exploit means that attackers do not require physical access to the system, making the vulnerability particularly dangerous in networked environments where the application is exposed to external traffic. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability corresponds to T1190 - Exploit Public-Facing Application, where adversaries leverage weaknesses in externally accessible applications to gain unauthorized access.
Organizations utilizing affected versions of vtls-Virtua software face significant risks including unauthorized data access, potential data breaches, and system compromise. The vulnerability creates a persistent threat vector that can be exploited by automated scanning tools, making it attractive to both skilled and unskilled attackers. The impact is particularly severe given that the vulnerability affects the core authentication mechanism, potentially allowing attackers to escalate privileges and gain administrative access to the entire system. Mitigation strategies should focus on immediate patching to versions 2013.2.4 or 2014.1.1, implementing proper input validation and parameterization techniques, and deploying web application firewalls to detect and block malicious SQL injection attempts. Additionally, organizations should conduct thorough security assessments to identify any other potential injection vulnerabilities within their web applications and implement defense-in-depth strategies including database access controls and monitoring of suspicious database activities.