CVE-2016-9288 in Exponent
Summary
by MITRE
In framework/modules/navigation/controllers/navigationController.php in Exponent CMS v2.4.0 or older, the parameter "target" of function "DragnDropReRank" is directly used without any filtration which caused SQL injection. The payload can be used like this: /navigation/DragnDropReRank/target/1.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/03/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2016-9288 resides within the Exponent CMS version 2.4.0 and earlier, specifically in the navigation controller module. This flaw represents a classic SQL injection vulnerability that arises from inadequate input validation and sanitization practices. The affected file navigationController.php contains a function named DragnDropReRank which processes the target parameter directly without any form of filtering or sanitization, creating a direct pathway for malicious actors to inject arbitrary SQL commands into the database layer.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs through the manipulation of the target parameter within the DragnDropReRank function, where user-supplied input flows directly into SQL query construction without proper escaping or parameterization. This vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it allows attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands against the underlying database, potentially leading to complete database compromise, data exfiltration, or unauthorized access to sensitive information. The attack vector is straightforward and accessible, requiring only a properly crafted URL parameter that can be delivered through the navigation module's drag and drop re-ranking functionality.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft, as it can enable attackers to escalate privileges, modify database contents, or even establish persistent backdoors within the CMS infrastructure. The vulnerability affects the core navigation functionality of the CMS, which means that any user with access to the navigation module could potentially exploit this weakness. This represents a critical security risk for organizations relying on Exponent CMS, as the vulnerability can be exploited through standard web browser interactions without requiring specialized tools or extensive technical knowledge. The vulnerability's classification aligns with CWE-89, which specifically addresses SQL injection flaws, and demonstrates a clear violation of secure coding practices that should be implemented across all web applications.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2016-9288 should prioritize immediate remediation through upgrading to Exponent CMS version 2.4.1 or later, where the vulnerability has been patched. Organizations should also implement proper input validation and parameterized queries throughout their applications, ensuring that all user-supplied data undergoes rigorous sanitization before being processed by database operations. Additionally, implementing web application firewalls and database activity monitoring can provide additional layers of protection. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of following ATT&CK framework principles for defensive measures, particularly in the context of command and control operations where SQL injection can be leveraged for broader system compromise. Organizations should also conduct comprehensive security assessments to identify similar vulnerabilities in other parts of their application stack, as this type of flaw often indicates broader architectural weaknesses in input handling and data validation processes.