CVE-2018-21021 in Web
Summary
by MITRE
img_gantt.php in Centreon Web before 2.8.27 allows attackers to perform SQL injections via the host_id parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/27/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-21021 affects Centreon Web versions prior to 2.8.27 and represents a critical SQL injection flaw in the img_gantt.php component. This vulnerability specifically targets the host_id parameter, which is processed without adequate input validation or sanitization, creating a pathway for malicious actors to execute arbitrary SQL commands against the underlying database. The affected Centreon Web platform is widely used for network monitoring and system administration, making this vulnerability particularly dangerous as it could compromise the entire monitoring infrastructure. The flaw resides in the application's failure to properly escape or validate user-supplied input before incorporating it into database queries, a classic pattern that aligns with CWE-89 SQL injection vulnerabilities.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker submits a malicious host_id parameter value that contains SQL payload commands. Since the img_gantt.php script does not implement proper parameter sanitization or prepared statement usage, the injected SQL code gets executed within the database context, potentially allowing attackers to extract sensitive information, modify database records, or even escalate privileges. This type of vulnerability falls under the ATT&CK technique T1071.004 Application Layer Protocol: DNS, as it operates through web application interfaces and can be leveraged to gain unauthorized access to backend database systems. The attack vector is particularly concerning because it requires minimal privileges to exploit and can be automated, making it attractive to both automated scanning tools and targeted attackers.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data compromise, as Centreon Web deployments often contain critical infrastructure monitoring data including system credentials, network configurations, and operational metrics. Successful exploitation could lead to complete database compromise, unauthorized access to monitoring systems, and potential lateral movement within network environments where Centreon is deployed. Organizations using affected versions may experience unauthorized data access, system integrity violations, and potential service disruption. The vulnerability's persistence in the system means that even after initial exploitation, attackers could maintain access and continue to monitor or manipulate the monitored infrastructure. Security teams should consider this vulnerability as a potential entry point for more sophisticated attacks, particularly in environments where Centreon serves as a central monitoring hub for critical network components.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2018-21021 primarily involve upgrading to Centreon Web version 2.8.27 or later, which includes proper input validation and parameter sanitization for the host_id parameter. Organizations should also implement web application firewall rules to detect and block suspicious SQL injection patterns targeting the img_gantt.php endpoint. Additionally, database access should be restricted to minimize potential impact from successful exploitation, and regular security assessments should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other components of the Centreon platform. The fix addresses the underlying CWE-89 vulnerability through proper input validation and parameterized query implementation, aligning with industry best practices for preventing SQL injection attacks. Security monitoring should include detection of unusual database access patterns and unauthorized data extraction attempts that may indicate exploitation of this vulnerability.