CVE-2018-16385 in ThinkPHP
Summary
by MITRE
ThinkPHP before 5.1.23 allows SQL Injection via the public/index/index/test/index query string.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/06/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-16385 represents a critical SQL injection flaw in ThinkPHP versions prior to 5.1.23, specifically affecting the public/index/index/test/index query string parameter. This vulnerability exposes applications built on the ThinkPHP framework to unauthorized database access and potential data compromise. The flaw occurs within the framework's parameter handling mechanism where user-supplied input is not properly sanitized before being incorporated into database queries. The affected parameter path demonstrates how the framework's routing and parameter processing logic fails to adequately validate or escape input data, creating a direct pathway for malicious actors to manipulate database queries through crafted URL parameters.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation within the ThinkPHP framework's core processing components. When the application processes the test/index query string parameter, it directly incorporates user input into SQL execution contexts without proper sanitization or parameter binding mechanisms. This design flaw allows attackers to inject malicious SQL commands that bypass normal security controls. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-89, which specifically addresses SQL injection weaknesses where untrusted data is used in SQL commands without proper validation or escaping. The attack vector operates through HTTP request manipulation where a malicious user can append crafted parameters to the URL to execute arbitrary SQL commands against the underlying database system.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft to encompass complete database compromise and potential system infiltration. An attacker can leverage this vulnerability to extract sensitive information, modify database records, or even escalate privileges within the database environment. The vulnerability affects all applications using ThinkPHP versions before 5.1.23, making it particularly dangerous as it impacts a substantial portion of web applications built on this framework. The attack requires minimal sophistication and can be automated, making it attractive to both script kiddies and organized threat groups. This vulnerability also facilitates further attacks in the chain, as compromised database access can lead to credential theft, data exfiltration, and potentially system-wide compromise through database-based attack vectors.
Security mitigations for CVE-2018-16385 require immediate application of the official ThinkPHP 5.1.23 patch or upgrade to a supported framework version. Organizations should implement comprehensive input validation at multiple layers including application-level parameter sanitization, database query parameterization, and web application firewall rules to detect and block malicious SQL injection attempts. The remediation process must include thorough code review to identify other potential injection points within the application, as this vulnerability may indicate broader security weaknesses in the application's data handling practices. Additionally, implementing proper database access controls, including least privilege principles and regular audit logging, can help minimize the impact of successful exploitation attempts. Security teams should also consider implementing automated vulnerability scanning tools that can detect similar injection patterns and ensure that all applications using ThinkPHP or similar frameworks maintain up-to-date security patches. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of keeping web application frameworks updated and following secure coding practices as outlined in the OWASP Top Ten and MITRE ATT&CK framework's application security categories.