CVE-2018-20678 in LibreNMS
Summary
by MITRE
LibreNMS through 1.47 allows SQL injection via the html/ajax_table.php sort[hostname] parameter, exploitable by authenticated users during a search.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/17/2023
LibreNMS version 1.47 and earlier contains a critical sql injection vulnerability that affects the html/ajax_table.php component through the sort[hostname] parameter. This vulnerability exists within the application's handling of user-supplied input during search operations and requires authentication to exploit, making it particularly dangerous in environments where user access is not properly restricted. The flaw allows authenticated attackers to manipulate database queries through crafted input, potentially enabling unauthorized data access, modification, or deletion. This vulnerability directly impacts the integrity and confidentiality of network monitoring data that LibreNMS manages for organizations.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and sanitization within the sort[hostname] parameter processing. When users perform searches through the web interface, the application constructs sql queries using user-provided sort parameters without adequate escaping or parameterization. This creates a classic sql injection vector where malicious input can alter the intended query structure and execute arbitrary sql commands. The vulnerability is classified under cwe-89 sql injection, which represents one of the most prevalent and dangerous web application security flaws. Attackers can leverage this weakness to extract sensitive information from the database, modify existing records, or even gain elevated privileges within the application environment.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data compromise as it affects the core functionality of network monitoring operations. Organizations relying on LibreNMS for network infrastructure monitoring face potential exposure of critical network data, device configurations, and monitoring logs. An attacker with valid credentials could exploit this vulnerability to gain unauthorized access to network device information, potentially leading to more extensive attacks on the underlying network infrastructure. The authenticated nature of the exploit means that compromised user accounts or weak credential management practices could immediately lead to successful exploitation, making this vulnerability particularly concerning for organizations with insufficient privileged access controls.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate attention through software updates to versions that address the sql injection flaw. Organizations should implement comprehensive credential management practices including strong authentication controls, regular credential rotation, and privileged access monitoring. Network segmentation and least privilege principles should be enforced to limit the potential impact of compromised accounts. Additionally, implementing web application firewalls and input validation controls can provide additional defense layers. The vulnerability aligns with attack techniques documented in the attack framework under initial access and privilege escalation categories, emphasizing the need for layered security approaches. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be conducted to identify similar weaknesses in other components of the network monitoring infrastructure.