CVE-2014-5082 in Sphider
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple SQL injection vulnerabilities in admin/admin.php in Sphider 1.3.6 and earlier, Sphider Pro, and Sphider-plus allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the (1) site_id or (2) url parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/05/2025
The vulnerability CVE-2014-5082 represents a critical SQL injection flaw affecting multiple versions of Sphider search engine software including Sphider 1.3.6 and earlier versions, Sphider Pro, and Sphider-plus. This vulnerability resides within the admin/admin.php file and presents a significant security risk to web applications utilizing these search platforms. The flaw allows remote attackers to inject malicious SQL commands through two specific parameters: site_id and url, creating pathways for unauthorized database access and potential system compromise.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization within the administrative interface of Sphider applications. When the system processes user-supplied parameters without proper escaping or parameterization, it creates an environment where malicious actors can manipulate database queries through crafted input strings. The site_id and url parameters serve as entry points where attacker-controlled data directly influences SQL query construction, enabling attackers to bypass authentication mechanisms and execute arbitrary database commands. This weakness aligns with CWE-89, which specifically addresses SQL injection vulnerabilities where untrusted data is incorporated into SQL queries without proper sanitization.
The operational impact of CVE-2014-5082 extends beyond simple data theft to encompass complete system compromise and unauthorized administrative access. Attackers exploiting this vulnerability can retrieve sensitive information including user credentials, database schemas, and application configuration details. The remote nature of the attack means that threat actors do not require physical access to the system or local network privileges to exploit the vulnerability. This characteristic places the affected systems at significant risk, particularly in environments where Sphider is deployed as a web-based search solution for content management or enterprise search functionalities. The vulnerability also aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190, which describes exploitation of vulnerabilities in remote services to gain unauthorized access to systems.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2014-5082 should prioritize immediate software updates to versions that address the SQL injection vulnerabilities. Organizations should implement proper input validation and parameterized queries to prevent user-supplied data from influencing database operations. Additionally, network segmentation and access controls should be enforced to limit exposure of administrative interfaces. The implementation of web application firewalls and regular security audits can provide additional layers of protection against similar vulnerabilities. System administrators should also conduct thorough vulnerability assessments to identify other potential injection points within their Sphider deployments and ensure that all administrative interfaces follow secure coding practices to prevent future occurrences of such flaws.