CVE-2018-14389 in joyplus-cms
Summary
by MITRE
joyplus-cms 1.6.0 has SQL Injection via the manager/admin_ajax.php val parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/18/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-14389 affects joyplus-cms version 1.6.0 and represents a critical SQL injection flaw within the manager/admin_ajax.php component. This vulnerability specifically targets the val parameter which serves as an entry point for malicious SQL commands. The flaw allows attackers to manipulate database queries through improper input validation and sanitization mechanisms. The affected application fails to properly escape or filter user-supplied data before incorporating it into SQL command structures, creating a direct pathway for database compromise.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the application's failure to employ proper parameterized queries or input sanitization techniques. When the val parameter is processed within the admin_ajax.php script, the system directly concatenates user input into SQL statements without adequate protection measures. This design flaw aligns with CWE-89 which categorizes improper neutralization of special elements used in SQL commands as a fundamental weakness in application security. The vulnerability exists at the intersection of weak input validation and inadequate output encoding, creating a persistent risk for data exposure and system compromise.
Operationally, this SQL injection vulnerability presents significant threats to the affected system's integrity and confidentiality. Attackers can exploit this flaw to extract sensitive information from the database including user credentials, administrative details, and potentially the entire database contents. The impact extends beyond simple data theft as malicious actors could modify or delete database records, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The vulnerability affects the administrative functionality of the content management system, providing attackers with elevated privileges and access to sensitive administrative features. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to T1071.005 for application layer protocol and T1046 for network service scanning, as attackers would need to identify and exploit this specific endpoint to gain unauthorized access.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2018-14389 require immediate implementation of multiple security controls. The primary remediation involves updating joyplus-cms to a version that addresses this vulnerability through proper parameterized queries and input validation. Organizations should implement proper input sanitization techniques including the use of prepared statements and parameterized queries to prevent SQL injection attacks. Additionally, input validation should be strengthened at all entry points with proper escaping of special characters and implementation of whitelisting mechanisms. Network-level protections such as web application firewalls should be deployed to monitor and block suspicious SQL injection patterns. Regular security assessments and code reviews should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other components of the application. The implementation of proper access controls and least privilege principles can limit the potential damage from successful exploitation attempts. Security teams should also establish monitoring procedures to detect and respond to exploitation attempts targeting this specific vulnerability.