CVE-2018-10595 in ReadA
Summary
by MITRE
A vulnerability in ReadA version 1.1.0.2 and previous allows an authorized user with access to a privileged account on a BD Kiestra system (Kiestra TLA, Kiestra WCA, and InoqulA+ specimen processor) to issue SQL commands, which may result in loss or corruption of data.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/08/2020
This vulnerability resides within the ReadA component of BD Kiestra systems, specifically affecting versions 1.1.0.2 and earlier releases. The flaw represents a significant security weakness that allows authenticated users with privileged access to execute arbitrary SQL commands against the underlying database system. The affected systems include Kiestra TLA, Kiestra WCA, and InoqulA+ specimen processors, which are commonly deployed in laboratory automation environments where sensitive data handling is critical. This vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and improper SQL query construction within the application's database interaction layer, creating an environment where malicious SQL injection attacks can be executed through legitimate administrative interfaces.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability demonstrates a classic SQL injection flaw that falls under CWE-89, which specifically addresses improper neutralization of special elements used in SQL commands. The vulnerability occurs when the application fails to properly sanitize user inputs before incorporating them into database queries, allowing attackers to manipulate the intended query structure. In the context of BD Kiestra systems, this means that an authorized user with sufficient privileges can craft malicious SQL statements that bypass normal access controls and directly interact with the database backend. The attack vector leverages the existing trust relationship between the user and the system, making it particularly dangerous as it requires no additional privilege escalation beyond what is already granted to the authenticated user.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data corruption or loss, as it fundamentally compromises the integrity and confidentiality of laboratory data managed by these systems. Laboratory environments relying on BD Kiestra products face potential exposure to unauthorized data manipulation, including the ability to read sensitive patient information, modify test results, or delete critical records. The vulnerability affects systems that process specimen data in healthcare and research settings where data accuracy and security are paramount. Attackers could potentially exploit this weakness to alter laboratory results, compromise research data integrity, or gain access to confidential medical information, creating significant operational and regulatory compliance risks for organizations using these systems.
Organizations utilizing affected BD Kiestra systems should prioritize immediate remediation through the application of vendor-provided security patches and updates. The mitigation strategy should include comprehensive network segmentation to limit access to these systems, implementation of least-privilege access controls, and enhanced monitoring of database activities for suspicious SQL command execution patterns. Security teams should also consider implementing database activity monitoring solutions that can detect anomalous SQL injection attempts and provide real-time alerts for potential exploitation. Additionally, organizations should conduct thorough vulnerability assessments to identify all instances of the affected software versions and establish incident response procedures specifically tailored to address potential SQL injection attacks targeting laboratory automation systems. The vulnerability aligns with attack techniques documented in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under the T1071.004 sub-technique for application layer protocol manipulation, emphasizing the need for robust input validation and secure coding practices in database interaction components.