CVE-2015-3933 in GeniXCMS
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple SQL injection vulnerabilities in inc/lib/User.class.php in MetalGenix GeniXCMS before 0.0.3-patch allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the (1) email parameter or (2) userid parameter to register.php.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/20/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2015-3933 represents a critical SQL injection flaw within the MetalGenix GeniXCMS content management system prior to version 0.0.3-patch. This vulnerability exists in the inc/lib/User.class.php file and affects the registration functionality of the CMS. The flaw allows remote attackers to inject malicious SQL commands through two specific parameters within the registration process. The vulnerability manifests when users attempt to register through the register.php endpoint, making it particularly dangerous as it targets the system's user registration mechanism which is frequently accessed by both legitimate users and potential attackers.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization within the User.class.php file. When the email parameter or userid parameter is submitted through the registration form, the application fails to properly escape or filter user-supplied data before incorporating it into SQL queries. This lack of proper data sanitization creates an exploitable condition where attackers can manipulate the SQL execution flow by injecting malicious SQL syntax. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-89, which specifically addresses SQL injection flaws, and represents a classic example of unsafe query construction where user input directly influences database query structure without adequate protection mechanisms.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and multifaceted. Remote attackers can leverage this weakness to execute arbitrary SQL commands on the affected database server, potentially leading to complete database compromise. Attackers may gain unauthorized access to user credentials, personal information, and other sensitive data stored within the CMS database. The vulnerability also enables attackers to perform data manipulation operations including data insertion, modification, or deletion. Furthermore, the exploitation could potentially allow attackers to escalate privileges within the database, execute operating system commands, or even establish persistent backdoors. This makes the vulnerability particularly attractive to threat actors seeking to compromise entire web applications or gain unauthorized access to sensitive information systems.
The attack surface for this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft, as it provides a pathway for more sophisticated attacks. According to ATT&CK framework categorization, this vulnerability maps to T1190 - Exploit Public-Facing Application, where attackers exploit weaknesses in publicly accessible web applications. The vulnerability also relates to T1071.004 - Application Layer Protocol: DNS, as attackers may use the compromised system to launch further attacks. Organizations using affected versions of GeniXCMS face significant risk of data breaches, regulatory compliance violations, and potential system compromise. The vulnerability's impact is amplified by the fact that user registration is typically a high-traffic function, making it a prime target for automated exploitation attempts. Security professionals should consider implementing network-based intrusion detection systems to monitor for exploitation attempts and ensure immediate patching of affected systems.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should include immediate application of the vendor-provided patch to version 0.0.3-patch or later. Organizations should also implement proper input validation and parameterized queries throughout their applications to prevent similar vulnerabilities. The principle of least privilege should be enforced for database connections, limiting the potential damage from successful exploitation. Regular security assessments and code reviews should be conducted to identify and remediate similar input validation issues. Additionally, web application firewalls can provide an additional layer of protection against SQL injection attacks while patches are being deployed. Organizations should also consider implementing database activity monitoring to detect unusual query patterns that may indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of secure coding practices and regular security updates in maintaining application integrity.