CVE-2018-14012 in WolfSight
Summary
by MITRE
WolfSight CMS 3.2 allows SQL injection via the PATH_INFO to the default URI.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/04/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-14012 affects WolfSight CMS version 3.2 and represents a critical SQL injection flaw that can be exploited through the PATH_INFO parameter in the default URI handling mechanism. This vulnerability falls under the CWE-89 category, which specifically addresses SQL injection attacks where untrusted data is directly incorporated into SQL command strings without proper sanitization or parameterization. The attack vector leverages the application's improper handling of URI path information, allowing malicious actors to inject arbitrary SQL commands that can be executed against the underlying database.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when the CMS processes incoming requests through the PATH_INFO parameter, which is typically used to pass additional path information to the application. In WolfSight CMS 3.2, the application fails to properly validate or sanitize this input before incorporating it into database queries, creating an opportunity for attackers to manipulate the SQL execution flow. This flaw can be exploited across the entire application surface since the default URI handling mechanism is fundamental to how the CMS processes user requests. The vulnerability enables attackers to perform unauthorized database operations including data extraction, modification, or deletion, potentially leading to complete system compromise and data breach.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft, as it can be leveraged for privilege escalation and persistent access to the system. Attackers can exploit the SQL injection to bypass authentication mechanisms, gain administrative privileges, or execute arbitrary commands on the server hosting the CMS. This aligns with ATT&CK technique T1078 which covers valid accounts usage and T1190 which addresses exploitation of remote services. The vulnerability affects the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the CMS system, potentially allowing attackers to establish backdoors, modify content, or disrupt services. Organizations using WolfSight CMS 3.2 are particularly at risk since this is a widespread vulnerability that can be easily exploited by automated scanning tools.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2018-14012 must include immediate patching of the CMS to the latest version that addresses this vulnerability, as well as implementing proper input validation and parameterized query execution throughout the application. Organizations should deploy web application firewalls to monitor and block suspicious SQL injection patterns, and implement proper database access controls to limit the damage from potential exploitation. The remediation process should follow the principle of least privilege, ensuring that database accounts used by the CMS have minimal required permissions and that all user inputs are properly sanitized before processing. Additionally, regular security assessments and penetration testing should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other components of the application stack, as this type of flaw often indicates broader security weaknesses in the codebase that require comprehensive review and remediation.