CVE-2016-9481 in Exponent
Summary
by MITRE
In framework/modules/core/controllers/expCommentController.php of Exponent CMS 2.4.0, content_id input is passed into showComments. The method showComments is defined in the expCommentControllercontroller with the parameter '$this->params['content_id']' used directly in SQL. Impact is a SQL injection.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/04/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2016-9481 resides within the Exponent CMS 2.4.0 framework, specifically in the file framework/modules/core/controllers/expCommentController.php. This issue represents a classic SQL injection vulnerability that arises from improper input validation and sanitization within the comment management system. The flaw occurs when the content_id parameter is processed through the showComments method, which directly incorporates user-supplied input into database queries without adequate sanitization measures. This vulnerability falls under CWE-89 which categorizes SQL injection flaws as critical weaknesses in software applications that allow attackers to manipulate database queries through malicious input.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability demonstrates a dangerous practice where the application accepts user input through the content_id parameter and immediately uses it within SQL query construction. The expCommentController's showComments method processes $this->params['content_id'] directly in database operations, creating an environment where malicious actors can inject arbitrary SQL commands. This unfiltered input processing enables attackers to manipulate the database queries executed by the application, potentially allowing them to extract sensitive information, modify database records, or even gain unauthorized access to the underlying database system. The vulnerability specifically affects the core comment controller functionality, which is a fundamental component of content management systems that handle user-generated content.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data exposure, as it provides attackers with significant control over the CMS's database operations. An attacker could leverage this vulnerability to perform data extraction attacks, potentially accessing user credentials, content management information, or other sensitive data stored within the CMS database. The attack surface is particularly concerning given that comment systems are frequently accessed and often contain user-generated content that may include personal information or system-related data. This vulnerability could also enable privilege escalation attacks where attackers might manipulate the database to gain administrative access to the CMS. According to ATT&CK framework, this represents a technique categorized under T1071.004 for application layer protocol and T1190 for exploit public-facing application, making it a significant threat vector for automated attack tools.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability must address both immediate remediation and long-term security improvements. The primary fix involves implementing proper input validation and parameterized queries throughout the application's database interaction layers. All user-supplied input should undergo sanitization processes, with the content_id parameter being validated against expected data types and ranges before being used in database operations. The implementation of prepared statements or parameterized queries would eliminate the possibility of SQL injection by separating SQL command structure from user input data. Additionally, the application should enforce proper access controls and input validation at multiple layers, including the web application firewall and database access controls. Security hardening practices should include regular code reviews, automated vulnerability scanning, and implementation of input validation frameworks that prevent malicious SQL constructs from reaching database execution layers. The fix should also consider implementing proper error handling that prevents information leakage through database error messages that could aid attackers in crafting more sophisticated attacks.