CVE-2016-8929 in Kenexa LMS on Cloud
Summary
by MITRE
IBM Kenexa LMS on Cloud is vulnerable to SQL injection. A remote attacker could send specially-crafted SQL statements, which could allow the attacker to view, add, modify or delete information in the back-end database.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/09/2020
IBM Kenexa Learning Management System on Cloud presents a critical security vulnerability classified as CVE-2016-8929, which manifests as a SQL injection flaw in the application's backend database interface. This vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization within the system's data processing components, allowing malicious actors to execute unauthorized database operations through carefully crafted SQL commands. The flaw exists in the web application's parameter handling mechanisms where user-supplied inputs are directly incorporated into database queries without proper escaping or parameterization techniques, creating an exploitable pathway for attackers to manipulate the underlying database structure.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-89, which specifically addresses SQL injection weaknesses in software applications. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability by submitting malicious input through various application interfaces, including web forms, API endpoints, or parameterized URLs that interact with the database layer. The attack vector typically involves injecting SQL payload sequences that bypass authentication checks or manipulate query logic to extract sensitive information, modify existing records, or even delete critical database entries. This type of vulnerability represents a fundamental breakdown in the principle of least privilege and data isolation within the application architecture.
The operational impact of CVE-2016-8929 extends beyond simple data exposure, potentially enabling complete database compromise and unauthorized access to sensitive learning management data. Organizations utilizing IBM Kenexa LMS on Cloud face risks including unauthorized modification of course content, student records, and administrative data, as well as potential data exfiltration through database enumeration techniques. The vulnerability's remote exploitability means attackers do not require physical access or network proximity to the system, making it particularly dangerous in cloud environments where applications are accessible over the internet. This exposure creates significant risk for compliance violations under regulations such as gdpr, hipaa, and other data protection frameworks that mandate proper security controls for sensitive information handling.
From a threat modeling perspective, this vulnerability maps directly to several ATT&CK techniques including T1071.004 for application layer protocol manipulation and T1046 for network service discovery. The attack chain typically begins with reconnaissance to identify vulnerable parameters, followed by exploitation through crafted payloads designed to bypass existing security controls. Organizations should implement comprehensive input validation, parameterized queries, and proper database access controls to mitigate this risk. Recommended mitigations include immediate patching of affected systems, implementation of web application firewalls, database activity monitoring, and regular security assessments. Additionally, organizations must establish proper database privilege management, ensuring that application accounts have minimal required permissions and that database queries are properly sanitized before execution. The vulnerability underscores the critical importance of secure coding practices and regular security testing in cloud-based applications to prevent unauthorized data access and maintain the integrity of enterprise learning management systems.