CVE-2017-17781 in Horde Groupware
Summary
by MITRE
In Horde Groupware through 5.2.22, SQL Injection exists via the group parameter to /services/prefs.php or the homePostalCode parameter to /turba/search.php.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/27/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-17781 represents a critical SQL injection flaw affecting Horde Groupware versions 5.2.22 and earlier. This vulnerability manifests through two distinct attack vectors that exploit improper input validation mechanisms within the web application's preference and contact search functionalities. The first vector involves the group parameter in the /services/prefs.php endpoint, while the second targets the homePostalCode parameter in the /turba/search.php endpoint. Both pathways allow malicious actors to inject arbitrary SQL code into the database query execution process, potentially compromising the entire backend database infrastructure.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate sanitization of user-supplied parameters before their incorporation into SQL queries. When users interact with the preference management interface or perform contact searches, the application fails to properly escape or validate the input data, creating opportunities for attackers to manipulate the underlying database operations. This weakness directly maps to CWE-89 which categorizes SQL injection vulnerabilities as a fundamental flaw in input validation and query construction. The vulnerability exists because the application employs dynamic SQL query building without proper parameterization or input sanitization mechanisms, allowing attackers to inject malicious SQL fragments that execute with the privileges of the database user account.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft, potentially enabling complete database compromise and unauthorized access to sensitive user information. Attackers could leverage this vulnerability to extract confidential data including user credentials, personal contact information, and other sensitive organizational data stored within the Horde Groupware system. The attack surface is particularly concerning given that Horde Groupware serves as a collaborative platform for email, calendar, and contact management, making it a prime target for adversaries seeking persistent access to enterprise communications infrastructure. This vulnerability also aligns with ATT&CK technique T1071.005 which describes the use of application layer protocols for data exfiltration, as attackers could use the SQL injection to extract data through the compromised database interface.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-17781 should prioritize immediate patching of the affected Horde Groupware versions to the latest stable releases that contain proper input validation and parameterization fixes. Organizations should implement robust input sanitization measures including prepared statements and parameterized queries to prevent similar vulnerabilities from emerging in the future. Network segmentation and database access controls should be reinforced to limit the potential impact of successful exploitation attempts. Additionally, regular security assessments and penetration testing should be conducted to identify and remediate similar input validation weaknesses across the organization's web applications. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of maintaining up-to-date software versions and implementing proper security controls throughout the application development lifecycle to prevent such fundamental database security flaws from compromising enterprise systems.