CVE-2017-16558 in Contao
Summary
by MITRE
Contao 3.0.0 to 3.5.30 and 4.0.0 to 4.4.7 contains an SQL injection vulnerability in the back end as well as in the listing module.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/02/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-16558 represents a critical SQL injection flaw affecting Contao content management systems across multiple versions including 3.0.0 through 3.5.30 and 4.0.0 through 4.4.7. This vulnerability exists within both the backend administrative interface and the listing module functionality, creating a significant attack surface that could allow malicious actors to execute unauthorized database operations. The flaw stems from inadequate input validation and improper parameter handling within the application's database query construction mechanisms, particularly when processing user-supplied data in administrative contexts.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when unvalidated user input is directly incorporated into SQL query strings without proper sanitization or parameterization. Attackers can manipulate backend parameters or listing module inputs to inject malicious SQL code that executes within the database context. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-89 which categorizes improper neutralization of special elements in SQL commands, and represents a classic example of how insufficient input validation can lead to database compromise. The attack vector typically involves manipulating URL parameters, form inputs, or API endpoints that feed into database queries, allowing for data extraction, modification, or deletion operations.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft, as successful exploitation could enable attackers to gain unauthorized access to sensitive administrative information, manipulate content management systems, and potentially escalate privileges within the application environment. The backend exposure means that attackers could access administrative controls, modify user accounts, alter website content, or extract confidential database information including user credentials and system configurations. The listing module vulnerability compounds the risk by providing additional attack surfaces where user inputs are processed without adequate security controls, potentially allowing for broader system compromise. This vulnerability directly maps to several ATT&CK techniques including T1071.005 for application layer protocol manipulation and T1046 for network service discovery, as attackers would need to identify and exploit these specific endpoints to achieve their objectives.
Organizations affected by this vulnerability should immediately implement mitigations including input validation, parameterized queries, and comprehensive security testing of all database interaction points. The recommended approach involves applying the vendor-provided patches, implementing proper input sanitization mechanisms, and establishing robust database access controls. Additionally, organizations should conduct thorough security audits of their Contao installations, implement web application firewalls, and establish monitoring systems to detect potential exploitation attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of maintaining up-to-date security patches and implementing defense-in-depth strategies to protect against common injection vulnerabilities that continue to plague web applications across various platforms and frameworks.