CVE-2014-4194 in ZeroCMS
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in zero_transact_article.php in ZeroCMS 1.0 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the article_id parameter in a Submit Comment action.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/05/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2014-4194 represents a critical sql injection flaw within the ZeroCMS 1.0 content management system that exposes the application to remote code execution attacks. This vulnerability specifically affects the zero_transact_article.php script which handles comment submission functionality, making it particularly dangerous as it can be exploited through legitimate user interactions. The flaw arises from insufficient input validation and sanitization of the article_id parameter, which is processed without proper escaping or parameterization techniques that would prevent malicious sql code from being executed within the database context. The vulnerability is categorized under CWE-89 which specifically addresses sql injection weaknesses in software applications.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker submits a comment through the Submit Comment action and manipulates the article_id parameter to include malicious sql payloads. The vulnerable code fails to properly validate or sanitize user input before incorporating it into sql queries, allowing attackers to inject arbitrary sql commands that execute with the privileges of the database user account. This creates a pathway for attackers to extract sensitive data, modify database contents, or potentially escalate privileges within the application environment. The attack vector is particularly concerning because it leverages normal application functionality rather than requiring privileged access or specialized tools.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft, as successful exploitation can lead to complete system compromise and unauthorized access to sensitive information. Attackers can potentially retrieve user credentials, personal information, or other confidential data stored within the database. The vulnerability also poses risks to application availability and integrity, as malicious actors could modify or delete critical content. Organizations running ZeroCMS 1.0 are particularly at risk since this vulnerability affects core application functionality and can be exploited by attackers with minimal technical expertise. The exposure creates a persistent threat that remains active until the underlying code is properly patched or the application is upgraded.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should include immediate implementation of input validation and parameterized queries to prevent sql injection attacks. The recommended approach involves sanitizing all user inputs through proper escaping mechanisms and implementing prepared statements that separate sql code from data. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls to detect and block malicious sql injection attempts. The fix requires updating the zero_transact_article.php script to properly validate the article_id parameter and ensure that all database interactions use parameterized queries rather than direct string concatenation. Additionally, regular security audits and penetration testing should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other application components, with adherence to security standards such as those outlined in the owasp top ten and nist cybersecurity framework to prevent future incidents.