CVE-2017-20127 in KB Login Authentication Script
Summary
by MITRE • 07/13/2022
A vulnerability was found in KB Login Authentication Script 1.1 and classified as critical. Affected by this issue is some unknown functionality. The manipulation of the argument username/password with the input 'or''=' leads to sql injection. The attack may be launched remotely. The exploit has been disclosed to the public and may be used.
If you want to get best quality of vulnerability data, you may have to visit VulDB.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/11/2022
This vulnerability resides in the KB Login Authentication Script version 1.1, representing a critical security flaw that compromises user authentication mechanisms. The issue stems from improper input validation within the authentication process where user credentials are not adequately sanitized before being processed by the backend database. The specific attack vector involves manipulating the username and password parameters through SQL injection techniques, utilizing the payload 'or''=' which exploits weaknesses in query construction. This allows attackers to bypass authentication by injecting malicious SQL code that alters the intended query logic, potentially granting unauthorized access to the system.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability follows the patterns outlined in CWE-89 which specifically addresses SQL injection flaws in software applications. The attack requires remote execution capabilities since the vulnerable script is accessible over network connections, making it particularly dangerous for web applications. The injection occurs at the input validation layer where the authentication script fails to properly escape or parameterize user inputs before incorporating them into database queries. This creates an environment where attackers can manipulate the database query structure through crafted inputs, potentially extracting sensitive information or gaining administrative privileges.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized access, as it represents a fundamental breakdown in application security controls that can lead to complete system compromise. Attackers can leverage this flaw to perform unauthorized data access, modify user credentials, or potentially escalate privileges within the authenticated session. The disclosure of exploitation techniques to the public community significantly increases the risk profile since malicious actors can readily implement these methods without requiring advanced technical skills. This vulnerability affects the integrity and confidentiality of the authentication system, potentially exposing all user accounts and sensitive data stored within the application's database infrastructure.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability must address both immediate remediation and long-term security hardening measures. The primary solution involves implementing proper input validation and parameterized queries to prevent SQL injection attacks, ensuring that all user inputs are properly escaped or validated before database interaction. Organizations should deploy web application firewalls to monitor and filter suspicious SQL injection patterns, while also implementing robust authentication mechanisms including multi-factor authentication. Regular security assessments and code reviews should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other application components. The remediation process must include updating the affected script to version 1.2 or higher where the SQL injection vulnerability has been patched, and implementing comprehensive logging to detect potential exploitation attempts. Additionally, security awareness training for developers should emphasize secure coding practices to prevent similar vulnerabilities in future application development cycles.