CVE-2017-12908 in NexusPHP
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in takeconfirm.php in NexusPHP 1.5 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the conusr parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/07/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-12908 represents a critical sql injection flaw within the NexusPHP 1.5 content management system that specifically targets the takeconfirm.php script. This vulnerability manifests through the conusr parameter which fails to properly validate or sanitize user input before incorporating it into sql query constructions. The flaw enables remote attackers to inject malicious sql commands directly into the application's database layer without requiring authentication or privileged access, creating a significant security risk for any system utilizing this vulnerable version of the software.
From a technical perspective the vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation mechanisms within the takeconfirm.php script where the conusr parameter is directly used in sql query building operations. This primitive approach to parameter handling violates fundamental security principles and creates an exploitation vector that allows attackers to manipulate the intended sql execution flow. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-89 which specifically addresses sql injection weaknesses where untrusted data is incorporated into sql commands without proper sanitization or parameterization. The attack surface is particularly concerning as it operates at the database interaction layer, potentially allowing full compromise of the underlying data store and associated system resources.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft or manipulation to encompass complete system compromise potential. Remote attackers can leverage this flaw to execute arbitrary sql commands which may include data extraction, modification, or deletion operations against the database. Additionally, the vulnerability could enable privilege escalation attacks if the database user account has elevated permissions, potentially allowing attackers to gain administrative control over the entire application infrastructure. The lack of input validation means that attackers can construct complex sql injection payloads that bypass traditional security controls and may even exploit database-specific features to achieve further system compromise.
Organizations utilizing NexusPHP 1.5 should implement immediate mitigations including input validation and parameterized query implementations to address this vulnerability. The most effective remediation involves proper input sanitization where all user-supplied data is validated against expected formats and sanitized before database interaction. This approach aligns with ATT&CK technique T1071.004 which focuses on application layer protocol manipulation and emphasizes the importance of proper data validation in preventing injection attacks. Additionally, implementing web application firewalls and database activity monitoring solutions can provide additional layers of defense. System administrators should also consider implementing least privilege database access controls and regular security audits to detect potential exploitation attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of secure coding practices and proper input validation in preventing widespread exploitation across web applications.