CVE-2017-17730 in DeDeCMS
Summary
by MITRE
DedeCMS through 5.7 has SQL Injection via the logo parameter to plus/flink_add.php.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/15/2019
The vulnerability CVE-2017-17730 represents a critical sql injection flaw in DedeCMS versions up to and including 5.7, specifically affecting the plus/flink_add.php script through the logo parameter. This vulnerability falls under the CWE-89 category of SQL Injection, where improper input validation allows malicious actors to inject arbitrary sql commands into the database query execution process. The flaw occurs when the application fails to properly sanitize user-supplied input from the logo parameter, which is used during the addition of new links in the content management system's link management functionality.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability requires an attacker to craft malicious input for the logo parameter that bypasses the application's input validation mechanisms. When the application processes this parameter without proper sanitization, the sql injection payload gets executed within the database context, potentially allowing attackers to extract sensitive information, modify database contents, or even gain unauthorized access to the underlying database system. The vulnerability specifically targets the plus/flink_add.php endpoint which handles the addition of new links, making it particularly dangerous as it could be exploited during legitimate administrative operations or by unauthorized users attempting to compromise the system.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft, as successful exploitation could lead to complete system compromise and unauthorized access to all data stored within the DedeCMS database. Attackers could leverage this vulnerability to escalate privileges, modify content, or establish persistent backdoors within the system. The attack surface is significant since the vulnerability affects a core administrative function that handles external link additions, potentially allowing attackers to manipulate the website's navigation and link structure while simultaneously accessing sensitive user data, configuration settings, and other critical information stored in the database.
Security professionals should note that this vulnerability aligns with several ATT&CK techniques including T1071.004 for application layer protocol manipulation and T1046 for network service discovery. The recommended mitigations include immediate patching of DedeCMS to version 5.7.8 or later, which addresses this specific sql injection vulnerability through proper input validation and parameter sanitization. Additionally, implementing web application firewalls, conducting regular security assessments, and applying the principle of least privilege to database connections can significantly reduce the risk of exploitation. Organizations should also implement proper input validation mechanisms, use prepared statements for database queries, and conduct regular security training for administrators to prevent similar vulnerabilities from occurring in other parts of their web applications.