CVE-2014-8248 in Release Automation
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in CA Release Automation (formerly iTKO LISA Release Automation) before 4.7.1 b448 allows remote authenticated users to execute arbitrary SQL commands via a crafted query.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/28/2024
The CVE-2014-8248 vulnerability represents a critical SQL injection flaw within CA Release Automation software, formerly known as iTKO LISA Release Automation. This vulnerability affects versions prior to 4.7.1 build 448 and exposes the system to remote authenticated attackers who can manipulate database queries through crafted input. The vulnerability resides in the application's handling of user-supplied data within database operations, creating an avenue for malicious actors to bypass authentication mechanisms and execute unauthorized database commands. The flaw specifically impacts the software's query processing functionality, where insufficient input validation allows attackers to inject malicious SQL code that gets executed by the underlying database engine. This vulnerability falls under the CWE-89 category of SQL Injection, which is classified as a serious weakness in software security architectures that enables attackers to manipulate database queries and potentially gain unauthorized access to sensitive data.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability requires an attacker to possess valid authentication credentials for the CA Release Automation system, making it a remote authenticated attack vector. Attackers can craft malicious queries that, when processed by the application, get directly executed against the database without proper sanitization or parameterization. The vulnerability's impact extends beyond simple data retrieval, as successful exploitation can enable attackers to modify, delete, or extract sensitive information from the database. The attack surface is particularly concerning because CA Release Automation systems often contain critical deployment information, configuration data, and potentially sensitive operational details that could be leveraged for further attacks within the enterprise environment. This vulnerability demonstrates a failure in input validation and proper database query construction, which are fundamental security practices recommended by the OWASP Top Ten and other industry security frameworks.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is substantial for organizations using affected versions of CA Release Automation, as it provides attackers with the capability to compromise database integrity and confidentiality. Successful exploitation could result in unauthorized access to deployment configurations, release information, and potentially sensitive operational data that would normally be protected within the automation platform. Organizations may experience data breaches, compliance violations, and operational disruptions when this vulnerability is exploited. The attack could also serve as a stepping stone for more extensive lateral movement within the network, as database credentials and access patterns discovered through this vulnerability could be used to target other systems. The vulnerability's persistence across multiple builds prior to 4.7.1 b448 indicates a prolonged exposure window that could allow attackers to develop and refine exploitation techniques over time, increasing the overall risk profile for affected organizations.
Organizations should immediately implement mitigations including upgrading to CA Release Automation version 4.7.1 build 448 or later, which contains the necessary patches to address the SQL injection vulnerability. Additionally, implementing proper input validation controls, parameterized queries, and database access controls can help reduce the risk of exploitation. Network segmentation and monitoring for unusual database access patterns should be deployed to detect potential exploitation attempts. Security teams should also conduct thorough vulnerability assessments of their automation platforms and review access controls to ensure that only authorized personnel have the necessary privileges to interact with database components. The vulnerability highlights the importance of maintaining current security patches and implementing defense-in-depth strategies that include both perimeter security controls and internal application-level protections. Organizations should also consider implementing database activity monitoring solutions that can detect anomalous SQL query patterns and alert security teams to potential exploitation attempts. This vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of secure coding practices and the need for continuous security testing and validation of enterprise automation platforms.