CVE-2018-25057 in simple_php_link_shortener
Summary
by MITRE • 12/29/2022
A vulnerability was found in simple_php_link_shortener. It has been classified as critical. Affected is an unknown function of the file index.php. The manipulation of the argument $link["id"] leads to sql injection. The name of the patch is b26ac6480761635ed94ccb0222ba6b732de6e53f. It is recommended to apply a patch to fix this issue. The identifier of this vulnerability is VDB-216996.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/26/2023
This critical vulnerability exists in the simple_php_link_shortener application where an SQL injection flaw has been identified in the index.php file. The vulnerability specifically affects an unknown function that processes the $link["id"] parameter, creating a dangerous attack vector for malicious actors. The flaw allows adversaries to manipulate the SQL query structure through improper input validation of the $link["id"] argument, potentially enabling full database compromise and unauthorized data access.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability follows standard SQL injection attack patterns where the application fails to properly sanitize or escape user-supplied input before incorporating it into database queries. When the $link["id"] parameter is processed without adequate validation, attackers can inject malicious SQL code that bypasses normal authentication mechanisms and executes arbitrary database commands. This type of vulnerability falls under CWE-89 which specifically addresses SQL injection weaknesses in software applications. The attack surface is particularly concerning as it targets a core database interaction function that likely handles link identification and retrieval operations.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft to encompass complete system compromise and potential lateral movement within affected environments. An attacker who successfully exploits this SQL injection could extract sensitive information including user credentials, personal data, and application configuration details. The vulnerability's classification as critical indicates the potential for widespread damage and the ease with which it can be exploited. Organizations running this link shortener application face significant risk of data breaches and unauthorized system access, particularly if the database contains user authentication information or sensitive business data.
Security mitigation strategies should prioritize immediate implementation of the provided patch identified by the commit hash b26ac6480761635ed94ccb0222ba6b732de6e53f. This patch addresses the root cause by properly sanitizing the $link["id"] parameter before database processing and implementing proper input validation techniques. Organizations should also consider implementing additional security controls such as web application firewalls, database query parameterization, and regular security assessments to prevent similar vulnerabilities. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under T1190 - Exploit Public-Facing Application, highlighting the need for comprehensive application security testing and monitoring of public-facing systems. Regular security audits and input validation reviews should become standard practice to prevent such critical flaws from being introduced in future software releases.