CVE-2017-20032 in PHPList
Summary
by MITRE • 06/10/2022
A vulnerability was found in PHPList 3.2.6. It has been rated as critical. Affected by this issue is some unknown functionality of the component Subscription. The manipulation leads to sql injection. The attack may be launched remotely. The exploit has been disclosed to the public and may be used. Upgrading to version 3.3.1 is able to address this issue. It is recommended to upgrade the affected component.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/22/2022
This vulnerability exists within PHPList version 3.2.6, specifically within the subscription functionality component, and has been classified as critical due to its potential for severe exploitation. The flaw represents a sql injection vulnerability that allows attackers to manipulate database queries through improper input validation, creating a significant risk to system integrity and data confidentiality. The vulnerability's critical rating stems from its ability to enable unauthorized database access and potential data breach scenarios.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs when user input within the subscription module fails to properly sanitize or escape database query parameters. Attackers can exploit this weakness by injecting malicious sql code through subscription-related functionality, potentially gaining unauthorized access to sensitive information stored within the phpList database. The remote exploitation capability means that attackers do not require physical access to the system, making this vulnerability particularly dangerous for web-hosted applications.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft, as successful exploitation could allow attackers to modify or delete subscription data, potentially disrupting service operations and compromising user privacy. The disclosure of exploitation methods in the public domain significantly increases the risk exposure, as malicious actors can readily implement the attack without requiring advanced technical skills. Organizations running vulnerable versions face substantial risk of data compromise, service disruption, and potential regulatory violations.
Security mitigations for this vulnerability primarily involve upgrading to PHPList version 3.3.1, which includes patches addressing the sql injection flaw. Organizations should also implement additional defensive measures such as input validation, parameterized queries, and regular security assessments. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-89, which specifically addresses sql injection weaknesses in software applications. From an attack framework perspective, this vulnerability maps to the attack technique of command and control through data manipulation, potentially enabling lateral movement within compromised systems. Regular security updates and patch management protocols are essential for maintaining system integrity and preventing exploitation of known vulnerabilities.