CVE-2016-9287 in Exponent
Summary
by MITRE
In /framework/modules/notfound/controllers/notfoundController.php of Exponent CMS 2.4.0 patch1, untrusted input is passed into getSearchResults. The method getSearchResults is defined in the search model with the parameter '$term' used directly in SQL. Impact is a SQL injection.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/01/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2016-9287 resides within the Exponent CMS 2.4.0 patch1 framework, specifically in the notfoundController.php file where inadequate input validation creates a critical security flaw. This issue manifests when untrusted user input flows directly into the search functionality without proper sanitization or parameterization, establishing a clear pathway for malicious actors to exploit the system. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-89 which represents SQL injection, a well-documented and highly dangerous class of vulnerability that allows attackers to manipulate database queries through crafted input. The attack vector is particularly concerning because it leverages the core search functionality of the content management system, which is typically accessible to all users and often used for legitimate purposes.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs within the search model where the getSearchResults method accepts a '$term' parameter that is directly incorporated into SQL queries without proper escaping or parameterization. This design flaw allows an attacker to inject malicious SQL code through the search interface, potentially gaining unauthorized access to database contents, modifying or deleting data, or even escalating privileges within the system. The exploitation requires minimal technical skill and can be accomplished through standard SQL injection techniques, making it particularly dangerous for widespread deployment. The vulnerability exists because the application fails to implement proper input validation and sanitization mechanisms before executing database queries, violating fundamental security principles of input handling.
The operational impact of CVE-2016-9287 extends beyond simple data theft, as it can enable complete system compromise and unauthorized access to sensitive information. An attacker could potentially extract user credentials, personal information, or confidential business data stored within the CMS database. The vulnerability also provides opportunities for data manipulation and system disruption, potentially leading to service availability issues or complete system takeover. Given that Exponent CMS is a web-based content management system, the attack surface is broad and accessible, making this vulnerability particularly attractive to threat actors. The implications are further exacerbated by the fact that the vulnerability exists in a core framework component that handles user search requests, meaning that exploitation could occur through normal system usage patterns.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2016-9287 should prioritize immediate patching of the Exponent CMS to the latest available version that addresses this vulnerability. Organizations should implement proper input validation and parameterized queries throughout the application to prevent similar issues from occurring in other components. The use of prepared statements and proper SQL escaping mechanisms should be enforced across all database interactions, particularly those involving user-supplied input. Additionally, implementing web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems can provide additional layers of protection against exploitation attempts. Security monitoring should be enhanced to detect unusual search patterns that might indicate attempted SQL injection attacks, and regular security assessments should be conducted to identify and remediate similar vulnerabilities throughout the application stack. The vulnerability highlights the critical importance of following secure coding practices and maintaining up-to-date software to prevent exploitation through well-known attack vectors.