CVE-2014-8083 in OSClass
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in the Search::setJsonAlert method in OSClass before 3.4.3 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the alert parameter in a search alert subscription action.
Be aware that VulDB is the high quality source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/10/2022
The CVE-2014-8083 vulnerability represents a critical SQL injection flaw discovered in OSClass versions prior to 3.4.3, specifically within the Search::setJsonAlert method. This vulnerability resides in the core search functionality of the open-source classifieds platform, making it a significant concern for web applications that rely on OSClass for their directory services. The flaw enables remote attackers to manipulate database queries through the alert parameter, potentially leading to unauthorized data access, modification, or deletion. Given that OSClass powers numerous websites for classified advertising, the impact of this vulnerability extends across multiple organizations and users who depend on these platforms for business operations.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper input validation and sanitization within the Search::setJsonAlert method. When users subscribe to search alerts through the platform's interface, the alert parameter is processed without adequate protection against malicious SQL payloads. Attackers can craft specially designed alert parameters that bypass normal input filtering mechanisms, allowing them to inject arbitrary SQL commands directly into the database layer. This flaw aligns with CWE-89, which categorizes SQL injection vulnerabilities as a fundamental weakness in application security where user-supplied data is directly incorporated into SQL queries without proper sanitization. The vulnerability operates at the application level rather than at the database level, making it particularly dangerous as it can be exploited through the web interface without requiring direct database access or elevated privileges.
The operational impact of CVE-2014-8083 extends beyond simple data theft, encompassing complete system compromise and data integrity violations. Remote attackers can leverage this vulnerability to extract sensitive information including user credentials, personal data, and business-critical information stored within the OSClass database. The attack surface is particularly concerning given that search alert subscriptions are commonly used features in classified platforms, meaning that exploitation could occur through routine user activities. Additionally, attackers might use this vulnerability to modify or delete database records, potentially corrupting the entire classifieds platform and rendering it unusable. The vulnerability also aligns with ATT&CK technique T1071.004, which describes application layer protocol manipulation, as the attack exploits the legitimate search functionality to perform unauthorized database operations.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2014-8083 primarily focus on immediate patching and implementation of proper input validation measures. Organizations using OSClass should upgrade to version 3.4.3 or later, which includes fixes specifically addressing this vulnerability. Beyond patching, implementing proper parameterized queries and input sanitization techniques would significantly reduce the risk of similar vulnerabilities in the future. Security measures should include validating all user inputs through whitelisting approaches, implementing proper error handling to prevent information leakage, and conducting regular security assessments of web applications. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems to monitor for exploitation attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of secure coding practices and highlights the necessity of regular security audits in open-source platforms that handle sensitive user data. Proper database access controls and least privilege principles should also be enforced to limit the potential damage from successful exploitation attempts.