CVE-2017-9443 in BigTree
Summary
by MITRE
** DISPUTED ** BigTree CMS through 4.2.18 allows remote authenticated users to conduct SQL injection attacks via a crafted tables object in manifest.json in an uploaded package. This issue exists in core\admin\modules\developer\extensions\install\process.php and core\admin\modules\developer\packages\install\process.php. NOTE: the vendor states "You must implicitly trust any package or extension you install as they all have the ability to write PHP files."
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/23/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-9443 affects BigTree CMS versions through 4.2.18 and represents a critical SQL injection flaw that can be exploited by remote authenticated attackers. This security weakness resides within the package installation process, specifically in two core files located at core/admin/modules/developer/extensions/install/process.php and core/admin/modules/developer/packages/install/process.php. The vulnerability manifests when a malicious user uploads a specially crafted package containing a manifest.json file with a manipulated tables object, enabling unauthorized database access and potential data compromise.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability follows a classic SQL injection pattern where user-supplied input from the manifest.json file is improperly sanitized before being incorporated into database queries. The flaw occurs during the package installation phase when the system processes the tables object within the manifest.json configuration file. This object contains database schema definitions that are directly used in SQL query construction without adequate input validation or parameterization, creating a pathway for attackers to inject malicious SQL commands. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-89 as improper neutralization of special elements used in an SQL command, and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1071.004 for application layer protocol manipulation.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft, as it can enable attackers to escalate privileges, extract sensitive information, modify database structures, or even gain full control over the affected system. Remote authenticated users can leverage this flaw to execute arbitrary SQL commands against the database, potentially accessing administrative credentials, user information, or other critical system data. The vulnerability's exploitation requires only authenticated access, making it particularly dangerous as it can be used by insiders or compromised legitimate users. The attack surface is significantly broadened because the vulnerability exists in the core package management functionality that is frequently used during system maintenance and updates.
The vendor's statement regarding implicit trust in installed packages highlights a fundamental security principle that complicates mitigation strategies. While the vendor acknowledges the vulnerability, they emphasize that package installation inherently requires trust, which means that traditional perimeter-based security controls may not be sufficient. Organizations should implement comprehensive package validation procedures, maintain strict access controls, and regularly audit installed extensions and packages. The recommended mitigations include implementing strict input validation on all package manifest files, using parameterized database queries, limiting package installation permissions to trusted administrators only, and conducting regular security assessments of installed packages. Additionally, network segmentation and monitoring solutions should be deployed to detect unusual package installation activities that might indicate exploitation attempts.