CVE-2015-1517 in Piwigo
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in Piwigo before 2.7.4, when all filters are activated, allows remote authenticated users to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the filter_level parameter in a "Refresh photo set" action in the batch_manager page to admin.php.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/01/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2015-1517 represents a critical SQL injection flaw within the Piwigo photo gallery software affecting versions prior to 2.7.4. This security weakness specifically manifests when all filter mechanisms are enabled within the system configuration, creating a pathway for malicious actors to exploit the application's database interaction processes. The vulnerability resides in the batch_manager component of the administrative interface, where the filter_level parameter fails to properly sanitize user input before incorporating it into SQL query constructions.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through the "Refresh photo set" functionality available within the admin.php page's batch_manager section. When authenticated users with appropriate privileges access this feature, they can manipulate the filter_level parameter to inject malicious SQL commands that bypass the application's intended security controls. The flaw stems from improper input validation and inadequate parameter sanitization within the application's database query building logic, allowing attackers to manipulate the SQL execution flow and potentially execute unauthorized database operations. This vulnerability classification aligns with CWE-89, which specifically addresses SQL injection weaknesses where untrusted data is incorporated into SQL commands without proper escaping or parameterization.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft, as authenticated attackers can leverage this weakness to execute arbitrary SQL commands on the affected database server. This capability enables potential data manipulation, unauthorized access to sensitive information, and in severe cases, complete database compromise. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it requires only authenticated access, meaning that users with legitimate administrative privileges could be compromised, or attackers could escalate privileges through other means to gain access to the administrative interface. The attack vector operates through the web application layer, making it accessible over standard network protocols and potentially exploitable through automated tools that can identify and manipulate the vulnerable parameter.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2015-1517 primarily involve upgrading to Piwigo version 2.7.4 or later, which contains the necessary patches to address the SQL injection vulnerability. Organizations should also implement proper input validation and parameterized query approaches in their application code to prevent similar issues in other components. Network segmentation and access controls can help limit the potential impact of successful exploitation by restricting access to administrative interfaces. Additionally, monitoring for unusual database activity and implementing web application firewalls can provide additional layers of protection against exploitation attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper input sanitization and parameter handling in web applications, aligning with ATT&CK technique T1071.004 for application layer protocol manipulation and T1190 for exploit for execution through web applications. Organizations should also consider implementing database activity monitoring and regular security assessments to identify and remediate similar vulnerabilities across their infrastructure.