CVE-2016-9020 in Exponent
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in framework/modules/help/controllers/helpController.php in Exponent CMS 2.3.9 and earlier allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the version parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/29/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2016-9020 represents a critical sql injection flaw within the exponent cms 2.3.9 and earlier versions. This security weakness resides in the framework/modules/help/controllers/helpcontroller.php file where the version parameter is improperly handled during user input processing. The flaw allows remote attackers to manipulate database queries by injecting malicious sql code through the version parameter, effectively bypassing normal authentication and authorization mechanisms. This type of vulnerability falls under the common weakness enumeration category CWE-89 which specifically addresses sql injection vulnerabilities where untrusted data is directly incorporated into sql commands without proper sanitization or parameterization.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs when the helpcontroller.php script receives the version parameter from user input and incorporates it directly into database queries without adequate validation or escaping mechanisms. Attackers can exploit this by crafting malicious input that alters the intended sql query structure, potentially allowing them to extract sensitive data, modify database contents, or even execute administrative commands on the underlying database system. The remote nature of this vulnerability means that attackers do not require physical access to the system or local network privileges to exploit the flaw, making it particularly dangerous in web-facing applications where the cms is exposed to internet traffic.
The operational impact of CVE-2016-9020 extends beyond simple data theft or modification, as successful exploitation can lead to complete system compromise and unauthorized access to sensitive information. Organizations running affected versions of exponent cms may experience data breaches, loss of confidential information, and potential regulatory violations depending on the nature of data stored in the database. The vulnerability particularly affects content management systems where user input is processed without proper sanitization, creating a pathway for attackers to escalate privileges and gain deeper access to system resources. According to the attack technique framework, this vulnerability maps to techniques involving command injection and data manipulation that are commonly used in advanced persistent threat campaigns.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2016-9020 should prioritize immediate patching of affected systems to the latest stable version of exponent cms where the sql injection vulnerability has been addressed. Organizations should implement proper input validation and parameterized query construction throughout their applications to prevent similar issues from occurring in the future. The implementation of web application firewalls and input sanitization measures can provide additional layers of protection while patches are being deployed. Security teams should also conduct comprehensive vulnerability assessments to identify other potential sql injection points within their applications, as this vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper input handling in web applications. Regular security testing and code reviews should be implemented to ensure that similar flaws do not persist in future development cycles, aligning with industry best practices for secure software development and maintaining compliance with standards such as owasp top ten and iso 27001 security requirements.