CVE-2014-4850 in FoeCMS
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in index.php in FoeCMS allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the i parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/17/2019
The CVE-2014-4850 vulnerability represents a critical sql injection flaw in the FoeCMS content management system that exposes remote attackers to arbitrary code execution capabilities. This vulnerability specifically targets the index.php file within the CMS framework, where user input is improperly handled without adequate sanitization or validation mechanisms. The vulnerability occurs when the application processes the 'i' parameter directly in sql queries without proper input filtering, creating an exploitable path for malicious actors to manipulate database operations. The flaw falls under the category of insecure data handling and improper input validation, which are fundamental security weaknesses that have been consistently identified in software development practices.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability enables attackers to inject malicious sql payloads through the 'i' parameter in the index.php script. When a user submits data through this parameter, the application fails to validate or sanitize the input before incorporating it into sql queries, allowing attackers to construct sql commands that bypass normal application logic. This creates a scenario where attackers can extract sensitive data, modify database contents, or even gain administrative access to the cms system. The vulnerability directly maps to CWE-89, which defines sql injection as the insertion of malicious sql fragments into input data that is then processed by an application's sql engine. The attack vector is particularly dangerous because it allows remote code execution without requiring authentication or privileged access to the system.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability poses significant risks to organizations using FoeCMS, as it provides attackers with direct access to underlying database systems that may contain sensitive user information, configuration data, or business-critical content. The impact extends beyond simple data theft, as attackers can manipulate the cms functionality itself, potentially leading to complete system compromise or service disruption. The vulnerability's remote exploitability means that attackers can target systems from anywhere on the internet without requiring physical access or insider knowledge. This characteristic aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190, which describes the exploitation of remote services to gain unauthorized access to systems. Organizations may experience data breaches, regulatory compliance violations, and reputational damage as a result of successful exploitation.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2014-4850 should prioritize immediate patching of the FoeCMS application to address the sql injection vulnerability. Organizations must implement proper input validation and sanitization mechanisms that filter or escape all user-supplied data before processing. The use of parameterized queries or prepared statements should be enforced throughout the application codebase to prevent sql injection attacks. Additionally, implementing web application firewalls and input validation rules can provide additional layers of protection. Regular security assessments and code reviews should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other application components. The remediation process should also include monitoring database access logs for suspicious activities and implementing proper access controls to limit database privileges. Organizations should consider adopting secure coding practices that align with industry standards such as OWASP Top Ten and NIST cybersecurity frameworks to prevent similar vulnerabilities from occurring in future development cycles.