CVE-2017-11736 in BigTree
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in core\admin\auto-modules\forms\process.php in BigTree 4.2.18 allows remote authenticated users to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the tags array parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/14/2022
The vulnerability CVE-2017-11736 represents a critical sql injection flaw in BigTree CMS version 4.2.18 that affects the administrative module system. This vulnerability exists within the process.php file located in the core/admin/modules/forms directory, making it accessible through the web interface's form processing functionality. The flaw specifically targets the tags array parameter which is improperly sanitized before being incorporated into database queries, creating an avenue for malicious exploitation by authenticated users who possess administrative privileges.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and parameter sanitization within the application's database interaction layer. When the tags array parameter is submitted through the forms module, the application fails to properly escape or bind the input values before executing sql commands against the backend database. This improper handling allows attackers to inject malicious sql code that gets executed with the privileges of the authenticated user account, potentially enabling full database compromise and unauthorized access to sensitive information.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability poses significant risk to organizations using BigTree CMS 4.2.18 as it requires only authenticated access to exploit. The attack vector is particularly concerning because it leverages the administrative capabilities of legitimate users, making detection more difficult and potentially allowing attackers to maintain persistent access. Successful exploitation could result in data theft, database modification, privilege escalation, and potential lateral movement within the network infrastructure. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-89 which categorizes sql injection flaws as a fundamental weakness in application security practices.
The impact of this vulnerability extends beyond immediate data compromise as it can facilitate more sophisticated attacks within the ATT&CK framework. Attackers could use this entry point to establish persistence, escalate privileges to system-level access, or conduct data exfiltration operations. The authenticated nature of the attack means that the threat actor must first gain legitimate administrative credentials, but once obtained, they can leverage this vulnerability to perform actions that would otherwise be restricted. Organizations should consider implementing comprehensive monitoring of administrative activities and database access patterns to detect potential exploitation attempts.
Mitigation strategies should focus on immediate patching of the affected BigTree CMS version to the latest security releases that address this sql injection vulnerability. Additionally, organizations should implement proper input validation and parameter binding techniques throughout their applications, following secure coding practices that align with industry standards. Network segmentation and privilege separation can help limit the potential impact if exploitation occurs, while regular security audits and penetration testing should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other applications within the organization's infrastructure. The remediation process should also include thorough review of all administrative interfaces to ensure similar input sanitization issues have been addressed.