CVE-2016-9019 in Exponent
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in the activate_address function in framework/modules/addressbook/controllers/addressController.php in Exponent CMS 2.3.9 and earlier allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the is_what parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/29/2022
The CVE-2016-9019 vulnerability represents a critical sql injection flaw within the exponent cms 239 and earlier versions that specifically targets the activate_address function located in frameworkmodulesaddressbookcontrollersaddressControllerphp. This vulnerability exists within the address book module's controller component and provides remote attackers with the ability to execute arbitrary sql commands through manipulation of the is_what parameter. The flaw stems from insufficient input validation and sanitization of user-supplied data, allowing malicious actors to inject sql payloads directly into the application's database layer. The vulnerability is particularly concerning as it affects the core address book functionality that many cms installations rely upon for managing contact information and user data. The is_what parameter serves as the primary attack vector where unfiltered user input gets directly incorporated into sql query construction without proper escaping or parameterization mechanisms.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability follows a classic sql injection pattern where the application fails to properly sanitize input before incorporating it into database queries. When the activate_address function processes the is_what parameter, it likely concatenates user-provided values directly into sql statements without adequate validation or escaping. This creates an environment where attackers can craft malicious input that alters the intended sql query structure, potentially allowing them to extract sensitive data, modify database contents, or even gain elevated privileges within the database system. The vulnerability falls under the common weakness enumeration category of cwe-89 sql injection, which is classified as a high severity issue in the owasp top ten web application security risks. This weakness represents a fundamental flaw in data handling where user input is not properly validated or escaped before being used in database operations.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data compromise as it provides attackers with persistent access to the underlying database infrastructure that supports the cms application. Remote attackers can leverage this vulnerability to perform unauthorized data manipulation, including but not limited to reading administrative credentials, modifying user accounts, deleting critical records, or injecting backdoor access points within the cms system. The attack surface is particularly wide since the vulnerability affects the address book functionality which is commonly used throughout the cms platform and may be accessible to various user roles. Additionally, the vulnerability could enable attackers to escalate privileges and potentially compromise the entire cms installation, as database access often provides pathways to system-level compromise. The flaw also presents a significant risk to data integrity and confidentiality, as unauthorized users could access sensitive information stored in the address book module and related database tables.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2016-9019 should focus on immediate patching of the affected exponent cms versions to the latest available releases that contain proper input validation and sanitization mechanisms. Organizations should implement proper parameterized queries or prepared statements throughout the application codebase to prevent similar vulnerabilities from occurring in other modules. Input validation should be strengthened at multiple layers including application-level filtering and database-level security controls. Network segmentation and access controls should be implemented to limit exposure of the cms application to untrusted networks. Regular security audits and penetration testing should be conducted to identify similar injection vulnerabilities within the application. The implementation of web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems can provide additional monitoring and protection against sql injection attempts. Organizations should also establish secure coding practices and regular security training for developers to prevent the introduction of similar vulnerabilities in future application development cycles. Compliance with security standards such as iso 27001 and nist cybersecurity framework should include specific controls for preventing sql injection attacks and maintaining database security. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of keeping cms platforms updated with the latest security patches and following secure development lifecycle practices that incorporate security testing at every stage of the software development process.