CVE-2018-16445 in SeaCMS
Summary
by MITRE
An issue was discovered in SeaCMS through 6.61. SQL injection exists via the tid parameter in an adm1n/admin_topic_vod.php request.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/20/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-16445 represents a critical sql injection flaw within SeaCMS version 6.61 and earlier, exposing the system to unauthorized data access and potential system compromise. This vulnerability specifically affects the adm1n/admin_topic_vod.php component where the tid parameter fails to properly validate or sanitize user input, creating an exploitable entry point for malicious actors. The flaw stems from inadequate input filtering mechanisms that allow attackers to inject malicious sql commands directly into the application's database layer through the web interface.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability follows a classic sql injection pattern where the tid parameter in the adm1n/admin_topic_vod.php file does not employ proper parameterized queries or input sanitization techniques. When an attacker submits a crafted tid value containing sql payload characters, the application processes this input directly within sql queries without adequate escaping or validation, enabling the execution of arbitrary sql commands. This weakness aligns with CWE-89 which specifically addresses sql injection vulnerabilities in software applications. The vulnerability can be exploited through simple http requests that manipulate the tid parameter, making it particularly dangerous as it requires minimal technical expertise to execute.
The operational impact of CVE-2018-16445 extends beyond simple data theft to encompass complete system compromise and unauthorized access to sensitive information. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to extract database contents including user credentials, personal information, and system configuration details. The vulnerability also enables attackers to modify or delete database records, potentially leading to data corruption or complete system disruption. From an att&ck framework perspective, this vulnerability maps to technique t1190 - proxy phishing and t1071.004 - application layer protocol http, as attackers can exploit this through web-based interfaces. The vulnerability's impact is amplified by the fact that it affects the administrative interface, potentially allowing attackers to gain elevated privileges and full system control.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2018-16445 require immediate implementation of proper input validation and parameterized query usage throughout the SeaCMS application. Organizations should upgrade to SeaCMS version 6.62 or later where this vulnerability has been patched. The remediation process involves implementing proper input sanitization routines that escape special sql characters and employ parameterized queries to separate sql logic from data input. Security measures should include input validation at multiple layers including web application firewalls, database access controls, and regular security auditing of sql query execution patterns. Additionally, implementing principle of least privilege access controls for administrative interfaces and monitoring for unusual database access patterns can help detect exploitation attempts. Organizations should also consider implementing database activity monitoring solutions that can identify and alert on suspicious sql injection patterns, aligning with att&ck technique t1074.001 - data staged and t1041 - exfiltration over exfiltration protocol to prevent successful exploitation and data loss.