CVE-2017-14512 in NexusPHP
Summary
by MITRE
NexusPHP 1.5.beta5.20120707 has SQL Injection in forummanage.php via the sort parameter in an editforum action, a different vulnerability than CVE-2017-12981.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/17/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-14512 affects NexusPHP version 1.5.beta5.20120707 and represents a critical SQL injection flaw within the forummanage.php script. This vulnerability specifically manifests when processing the sort parameter during an editforum action, creating a pathway for malicious actors to execute arbitrary SQL commands against the underlying database. The issue is distinct from CVE-2017-12981, indicating that this represents a separate code path or implementation flaw within the application's database interaction mechanisms. The vulnerability resides in the application's input validation and sanitization processes, where user-supplied data from the sort parameter is directly incorporated into SQL query construction without proper escaping or parameterization.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker manipulates the sort parameter in the editforum action to inject malicious SQL code. This flaw stems from improper input handling where the application fails to validate or sanitize the sort parameter before incorporating it into database queries. The vulnerability maps to CWE-89 which specifically addresses SQL injection weaknesses in software applications, and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190 which describes the exploitation of SQL injection vulnerabilities. The attack vector leverages the application's trust in user input without adequate sanitization, allowing attackers to bypass authentication mechanisms, extract sensitive data, modify database contents, or potentially escalate privileges within the system.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data compromise, as successful exploitation could lead to complete database takeover and unauthorized access to all forum-related information. Attackers could extract user credentials, personal information, forum posts, and administrative data, potentially enabling further attacks on the broader network infrastructure. The vulnerability affects the integrity and confidentiality of the application's data layer, as it allows for unauthorized data manipulation and retrieval. Organizations using this vulnerable version of NexusPHP face significant risk of data breaches and system compromise, particularly in environments where the application handles sensitive user information or serves as a critical communication platform.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-14512 should prioritize immediate patching of the vulnerable NexusPHP version to the latest secure release. Organizations should implement proper input validation and sanitization measures, ensuring that all user-supplied parameters undergo rigorous validation before database interaction. The implementation of prepared statements or parameterized queries should be enforced throughout the application codebase to prevent direct SQL command injection. Additionally, network segmentation and access controls should be strengthened to limit potential attack surfaces, while regular security audits and penetration testing should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities. The remediation process should include comprehensive code review to ensure all database interaction points properly handle user input, following secure coding practices as outlined in OWASP Top Ten and NIST cybersecurity guidelines to prevent recurrence of such vulnerabilities.