CVE-2015-6537 in Cardio Server
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in the login page in Epiphany Cardio Server 3.3 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via a crafted URL.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/10/2024
The CVE-2015-6537 vulnerability represents a critical sql injection flaw discovered in the Epiphany Cardio Server version 3.3 authentication mechanism. This vulnerability specifically targets the login page functionality where user credentials are processed, creating an exploitable entry point for remote attackers to manipulate the underlying database operations. The flaw arises from insufficient input validation and sanitization of user-supplied data within the url parameters that are directly incorporated into sql query construction without proper escaping or parameterization.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the application's failure to properly handle user input in the login authentication flow. When a user attempts to log in through the web interface, the server processes url parameters containing username and password information, but these inputs are not adequately sanitized before being incorporated into database queries. This creates a scenario where an attacker can craft malicious url requests containing sql payload sequences that bypass normal authentication mechanisms and directly manipulate the database layer. The vulnerability is classified as a classic sql injection attack vector that operates at the application layer, making it particularly dangerous due to the sensitive nature of authentication systems.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends far beyond simple unauthorized access, as it provides attackers with the capability to execute arbitrary sql commands on the underlying database server. Successful exploitation could result in complete database compromise, allowing attackers to extract sensitive patient information, modify or delete critical medical records, and potentially escalate privileges within the system. The remote nature of the attack means that threat actors can exploit this vulnerability from anywhere on the internet without requiring physical access to the network or system infrastructure. This type of vulnerability directly violates security principles outlined in the cwe-89 category for improper neutralization of special elements used in sql commands, which is a fundamental weakness in data validation and input sanitization practices.
Organizations utilizing Epiphany Cardio Server 3.3 must implement immediate remediation measures including input validation and parameterized query implementation to address this vulnerability. The recommended mitigation strategy involves applying the vendor-provided security patches or upgrading to newer versions that have addressed this sql injection flaw. Additionally, implementing web application firewalls and database activity monitoring solutions can provide additional layers of protection against similar attack vectors. From an att&ck framework perspective, this vulnerability maps to techniques involving command and control communications and credential access, specifically targeting the credential access phase where adversaries attempt to obtain unauthorized access to systems through exploitation of authentication mechanisms. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of following secure coding practices and implementing proper input validation as outlined in industry standards such as owasp top ten and iso 27001 security controls to prevent such exploitable conditions in healthcare information systems.