CVE-2016-9416 in MyBB
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in the users data handler in MyBB (aka MyBulletinBoard) before 1.8.8 and MyBB Merge System before 1.8.8 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via unspecified vectors.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/08/2020
The CVE-2016-9416 vulnerability represents a critical sql injection flaw within the user data handling components of MyBB forum software and its associated merge system. This vulnerability affects versions prior to 1.8.8 and exposes the software to remote code execution through maliciously crafted sql commands. The flaw resides in how the system processes user data inputs, creating an exploitable pathway for attackers to manipulate database queries without proper authentication or authorization. The vulnerability impacts the core user management functionality of the forum platform, potentially allowing adversaries to access, modify, or delete sensitive user information and system data.
The technical nature of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-89 which categorizes improper neutralization of special elements used in sql commands as a code injection flaw. Attackers can leverage this weakness through unspecified vectors that likely involve user input fields or api endpoints that process user data. The vulnerability enables remote attackers to execute arbitrary sql commands against the underlying database, potentially leading to complete system compromise. This type of injection vulnerability typically occurs when user-supplied data is directly incorporated into sql query strings without proper sanitization or parameterization, making it a classic example of unsafe query construction practices.
The operational impact of CVE-2016-9416 extends beyond simple data theft to encompass full system compromise and potential data destruction. An attacker exploiting this vulnerability could access user credentials, personal information, forum posts, and administrative access details. The vulnerability affects not only the primary forum functionality but also the merge system that allows administrators to transfer data between different forum installations. This creates additional attack surface for malicious actors who might target the merge process to escalate privileges or gain unauthorized access to multiple systems. The remote execution capability means that attackers do not need physical access to the server and can exploit this vulnerability from anywhere on the internet.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability primarily focus on immediate software updates to version 1.8.8 or later where the sql injection flaws have been addressed. Organizations should implement comprehensive input validation and parameterized queries throughout their applications to prevent similar vulnerabilities from emerging in the future. Network segmentation and firewall rules can help limit the exposure of vulnerable systems while patches are deployed. Security monitoring should include detection of unusual database query patterns that might indicate sql injection attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of following secure coding practices such as those outlined in the owasp top ten and mitre attack framework, particularly focusing on preventing injection flaws through proper input sanitization and query parameterization techniques. Administrators should also consider implementing web application firewalls and database activity monitoring solutions to detect and prevent exploitation attempts.