CVE-2017-20141 in Movie Portal Script
Summary
by MITRE • 07/22/2022
A vulnerability classified as critical has been found in Itech Movie Portal Script 7.36. This affects an unknown part of the file /movie.php. The manipulation of the argument f leads to sql injection (Union). It is possible to initiate the attack remotely. The exploit has been disclosed to the public and may be used.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/11/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-20141 represents a critical sql injection flaw in Itech Movie Portal Script version 7.36 that specifically targets the /movie.php file. This vulnerability falls under the Common Weakness Enumeration category CWE-89 which defines sql injection as the insertion of malicious sql code into input fields for execution by the database. The flaw occurs when the application fails to properly sanitize user input passed through the f parameter, creating an attack surface where malicious actors can manipulate database queries through crafted input sequences. The vulnerability's classification as critical indicates the potential for severe data compromise and system disruption, making it a high-priority target for exploitation.
The technical implementation of this sql injection vulnerability occurs through the Union-based attack vector, which allows attackers to combine their malicious sql queries with legitimate database queries to extract sensitive information. When an attacker sends a specially crafted request containing the f parameter with sql injection payloads, the application processes this input without adequate validation or sanitization, enabling the attacker to execute unauthorized database operations. The remote exploitability aspect means that attackers can leverage this vulnerability from external networks without requiring physical access to the target system, significantly expanding the attack surface and potential impact.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-20141 extends beyond simple data theft to encompass complete database compromise and potential system infiltration. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to extract user credentials, personal information, and other sensitive data stored in the database. The Union-based sql injection technique allows for sophisticated data extraction methods where attackers can enumerate database schemas, retrieve user accounts with passwords, and potentially escalate privileges within the application. This vulnerability also enables attackers to modify or delete database content, potentially causing service disruption and data corruption. The public disclosure of the exploit further amplifies the risk as it provides malicious actors with readily available attack tools and techniques.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-20141 must address both immediate remediation and long-term security enhancements. The primary recommendation involves implementing proper input validation and parameterized queries to prevent sql injection attacks, aligning with the ATT&CK framework's defense-in-depth principles under the T1190 technique for exploitation of remote services. Organizations should apply the latest security patches from the vendor, implement web application firewalls to detect and block malicious sql injection attempts, and conduct comprehensive code reviews to identify similar vulnerabilities in other application components. Additionally, database access controls should be enforced through principle of least privilege, and regular security assessments should be performed to identify and remediate similar vulnerabilities across the application infrastructure. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of input sanitization practices and highlights the critical need for maintaining up-to-date security measures in web applications.