CVE-2016-10754 in vTiger
Summary
by MITRE
modules/Calendar/Activity.php in Vtiger CRM 6.5.0 allows SQL injection via the contactidlist parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/24/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2016-10754 resides within the Vtiger CRM 6.5.0 software, specifically in the modules/Calendar/Activity.php file where improper input validation allows for SQL injection attacks. This flaw specifically affects the contactidlist parameter which is processed without adequate sanitization or parameterization, creating a critical security exposure that could enable attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands against the underlying database. The vulnerability represents a classic example of insufficient input sanitization, where user-supplied data flows directly into SQL query construction without proper escaping or parameter binding mechanisms.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the application's failure to properly validate and sanitize the contactidlist parameter before incorporating it into database queries. When an attacker submits malicious input through this parameter, the application's query construction logic treats the input as executable SQL code rather than data, potentially allowing for unauthorized database access, data manipulation, or even complete database compromise. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-89 which categorizes SQL injection as a severe weakness in application security, and specifically maps to ATT&CK technique T1071.004 for application layer protocol manipulation.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft, as successful exploitation could result in complete database compromise, unauthorized user account creation, data exfiltration, and potential lateral movement within the organization's network infrastructure. Attackers could leverage this vulnerability to access sensitive customer information, financial records, and business-critical data stored within the Vtiger CRM system. The attack surface is particularly concerning given that calendar and activity modules often contain personal identifiable information and business-sensitive communications that could be exploited for identity theft, corporate espionage, or financial fraud.
Organizations utilizing Vtiger CRM 6.5.0 should immediately implement mitigations including applying the vendor-provided security patch, implementing web application firewalls with SQL injection detection capabilities, and conducting thorough input validation across all user-supplied parameters. Additionally, implementing proper parameterized queries and stored procedures, along with regular security testing and code reviews, would significantly reduce the risk of exploitation. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of input validation and proper database access controls in preventing SQL injection attacks, aligning with industry best practices outlined in the OWASP Top Ten and NIST cybersecurity frameworks. Organizations should also consider implementing database activity monitoring and intrusion detection systems to identify potential exploitation attempts and maintain comprehensive audit trails for forensic analysis.