CVE-2014-8554 in MantisBT
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in the mc_project_get_attachments function in api/soap/mc_project_api.php in MantisBT before 1.2.18 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the project_id parameter. NOTE: this vulnerability exists because of an incomplete fix for CVE-2014-1609.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/04/2022
The CVE-2014-8554 vulnerability represents a critical SQL injection flaw in MantisBT version 1.2.17 and earlier, specifically within the mc_project_get_attachments function located in the api/soap/mc_project_api.php file. This vulnerability arises from inadequate input validation and sanitization of the project_id parameter, which is processed through the SOAP API interface. The flaw enables remote attackers to inject malicious SQL commands directly into the database query execution chain, potentially leading to complete database compromise and unauthorized access to sensitive project information.
This vulnerability is particularly concerning as it stems from an incomplete remediation of a previously identified issue CVE-2014-1609, indicating a pattern of insufficient security testing and code review processes within the MantisBT development cycle. The mc_project_get_attachments function operates within the SOAP API framework, making it accessible to external attackers without proper authentication. When the project_id parameter is passed through this function, the application fails to properly escape or validate the input before incorporating it into SQL queries, creating a direct pathway for SQL injection attacks.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft, as successful exploitation could enable attackers to execute arbitrary database commands including data modification, deletion, or extraction of sensitive information such as user credentials, project details, and confidential bug reports. Attackers could potentially escalate privileges, create backdoors, or even perform database enumeration to map the entire database structure. The vulnerability affects organizations using MantisBT for bug tracking and project management, particularly those with exposed SOAP APIs, making it a significant risk for companies relying on this open-source issue tracking system.
Security professionals should note that this vulnerability aligns with CWE-89, which specifically addresses SQL injection flaws in software applications. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this as a database access technique under the privilege escalation and defense evasion domains, as attackers can leverage the vulnerability to gain deeper system access. Organizations should prioritize immediate patching to version 1.2.18 or later, as this release includes proper input validation mechanisms. Additionally, network segmentation, API access controls, and monitoring of SOAP API endpoints can provide additional defense layers. The vulnerability underscores the importance of thorough regression testing when implementing security fixes and demonstrates how incomplete patches can leave systems vulnerable to continued exploitation.