CVE-2016-7789 in Exponent
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in framework/core/models/expConfig.php in Exponent CMS 2.3.9 and earlier allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the apikey parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/29/2022
The CVE-2016-7789 vulnerability represents a critical sql injection flaw within the exponent cms 239 and earlier versions that exposes the frameworkcoremodelsexpconfigphp file to remote exploitation. This vulnerability specifically targets the apikey parameter which lacks proper input validation and sanitization mechanisms. The flaw exists in the core configuration model where user-supplied data from the apikey parameter is directly incorporated into sql query construction without adequate security measures. Attackers can leverage this weakness to inject malicious sql code that bypasses authentication mechanisms and executes unauthorized database operations. The vulnerability stems from inadequate parameter binding and input filtering that allows malicious payloads to be interpreted as sql commands rather than simple data values.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability follows established patterns documented in cwe-89 sql injection attacks where untrusted data flows directly into sql execution contexts. The attack vector operates through remote code execution capabilities that enable threat actors to manipulate database contents, extract sensitive information, modify user accounts, or potentially escalate privileges within the cms environment. The specific exposure occurs in the expConfig.php file where the apikey parameter is processed without proper sanitization, creating a direct pathway for sql injection attacks. This vulnerability aligns with attack techniques described in the mitre att&ck framework under the execution and privilege escalation phases, particularly targeting the database layer of web applications.
The operational impact of CVE-2016-7789 extends beyond simple data theft to encompass full system compromise and unauthorized access to sensitive organizational information. Remote attackers can exploit this vulnerability to gain access to user credentials, content management data, and potentially establish persistent access points within the affected systems. The vulnerability affects the entire exponent cms ecosystem and could enable attackers to modify website content, create backdoors, or extract confidential database information including user authentication details and business-critical data. Organizations running affected versions face significant risk of data breaches, service disruption, and potential regulatory compliance violations due to the exposure of sensitive information through unauthorized database access.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2016-7789 require immediate implementation of proper input validation and parameterized queries to prevent sql injection attacks. Organizations should upgrade to patched versions of exponent cms 240 or later where the vulnerability has been addressed through proper input sanitization and parameter binding mechanisms. The fix typically involves implementing prepared statements or parameterized queries that separate sql command structure from data values, preventing malicious input from being interpreted as executable code. Additional defensive measures include implementing web application firewalls, conducting regular security assessments, and establishing proper input validation routines that filter or escape special characters in user-supplied data. Security teams should also implement monitoring solutions to detect unusual database access patterns and ensure that all cms components are regularly updated to prevent exploitation of known vulnerabilities.