CVE-2014-4741 in xClassified
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in demo/ads.php in Artifectx xClassified 1.2 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the catid parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/01/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2014-4741 represents a critical SQL injection flaw within the Artifectx xClassified 1.2 web application, specifically affecting the demo/ads.php script. This vulnerability resides in the handling of user-supplied input through the catid parameter, which is processed without adequate sanitization or validation mechanisms. The flaw enables remote attackers to manipulate the underlying database queries by injecting malicious SQL code through this parameter, potentially compromising the entire database infrastructure.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability falls under CWE-89 which categorizes SQL injection as a weakness where untrusted data is incorporated into SQL commands without proper escaping or parameterization. The catid parameter in the demo/ads.php script serves as the primary attack vector where user input directly influences database query construction. When an attacker submits a malicious value through this parameter, the application fails to properly escape special SQL characters or employ prepared statements, allowing the injected payload to be executed as part of the database query. This vulnerability operates at the application layer and can be exploited through HTTP requests targeting the vulnerable script endpoint.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft, as it provides attackers with the capability to execute arbitrary database commands remotely. Successful exploitation could enable attackers to extract sensitive information including user credentials, personal data, and system configuration details. The vulnerability also permits attackers to modify or delete database records, potentially leading to complete system compromise. Additionally, the attacker could leverage this vulnerability to establish persistent access through database backdoors or escalate privileges within the application's database environment. This represents a significant threat to the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the affected system's data resources.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2014-4741 should focus on implementing proper input validation and parameterized queries to prevent SQL injection attacks. The recommended approach involves using prepared statements or parameterized queries for all database interactions, ensuring that user input is properly escaped or sanitized before being incorporated into SQL commands. Organizations should also implement proper access controls and input validation at multiple layers of the application architecture. The principle of least privilege should be enforced, limiting database user permissions to only those required for normal operation. Additionally, regular security assessments and code reviews should be conducted to identify and remediate similar vulnerabilities. From an ATT&CK framework perspective, this vulnerability aligns with techniques such as T1071.004 (Application Layer Protocol: DNS) and T1190 (Exploit Public-Facing Application), emphasizing the need for proper application hardening and network segmentation to prevent exploitation.