CVE-2017-5345 in GeniXCMS
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in inc/lib/Control/Ajax/tags-ajax.control.php in GeniXCMS 0.0.8 allows remote authenticated editors to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the term parameter to the default URI.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/28/2022
The CVE-2017-5345 vulnerability represents a critical sql injection flaw within GeniXCMS version 0.0.8 that specifically targets the ajax tag management functionality. This vulnerability exists in the file inc/lib/Control/Ajax/tags-ajax.control.php and affects authenticated editors who possess sufficient privileges to access the system's ajax endpoints. The flaw manifests when the application fails to properly sanitize user input passed through the term parameter in the default uri request, creating an exploitable path for malicious actors to manipulate database queries. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it requires only authenticated access, meaning that an attacker who has already gained credentials for an editor account can leverage this weakness to execute arbitrary sql commands against the underlying database. This type of vulnerability falls under the CWE-89 category of sql injection, which is classified as a critical weakness in software security that allows attackers to manipulate database queries through untrusted input. The attack vector specifically targets the application's handling of the term parameter in the ajax control mechanism, where user-supplied data is directly incorporated into sql statements without proper validation or sanitization. The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft, as it enables full database compromise including data exfiltration, data modification, privilege escalation, and potentially complete system takeover. Attackers can exploit this weakness to extract sensitive information such as user credentials, personal data, and system configurations, while also being able to modify or delete critical database content. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1071.004 which covers application layer protocol manipulation and T1046 which involves network service scanning and exploitation of vulnerable endpoints. The flaw demonstrates poor input validation practices and highlights the importance of implementing proper parameterized queries or prepared statements to prevent sql injection attacks. Organizations using GeniXCMS 0.0.8 should immediately implement mitigations including input validation, parameterized queries, and access controls to limit the impact of this vulnerability. The security implications extend to compliance requirements such as pci dss and gdpr where data protection and secure coding practices are mandatory. Additionally, this vulnerability underscores the necessity of regular security assessments and code reviews to identify and remediate similar weaknesses in web applications. The exploitability of this vulnerability is relatively straightforward for authenticated attackers, making it a significant risk for systems where editor accounts may be compromised or where access controls are not properly enforced. Proper patching and implementation of secure coding practices are essential to prevent exploitation of this sql injection vulnerability in the GeniXCMS platform.