CVE-2018-7269 in Yii
Summary
by MITRE
The findByCondition function in framework/db/ActiveRecord.php in Yii 2.x before 2.0.15 allows remote attackers to conduct SQL injection attacks via a findOne() or findAll() call, unless a developer recognizes an undocumented need to sanitize array input.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/15/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-7269 represents a critical SQL injection flaw within the Yii 2.0 web application framework that affects versions prior to 2.0.15. This vulnerability resides in the framework's database abstraction layer, specifically within the findByCondition function located in the framework/db/ActiveRecord.php file. The flaw enables remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands by manipulating input parameters through findOne() or findAll() method calls, potentially leading to complete database compromise and unauthorized data access.
The technical root cause of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input sanitization within the Yii framework's active record implementation. When developers utilize the findOne() or findAll() methods with array-based parameters, the framework fails to properly escape or validate array inputs before incorporating them into SQL queries. This oversight creates an injection vector where malicious actors can craft specially formatted array inputs that bypass normal parameter binding mechanisms. The vulnerability is particularly insidious because it operates silently without requiring explicit developer intervention to trigger, as the framework's undocumented requirement for array input sanitization is not clearly communicated to developers. This design flaw aligns with CWE-89, which categorizes improper neutralization of special elements in SQL commands as a fundamental weakness in application input handling.
The operational impact of CVE-2018-7269 extends far beyond simple data theft, as successful exploitation can lead to complete system compromise through unauthorized database access. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to extract sensitive information including user credentials, personal data, financial records, and proprietary business information. The remote nature of the attack means that adversaries do not require physical access to the system or local network privileges to exploit the vulnerability, making it particularly dangerous in cloud environments or publicly accessible web applications. Additionally, the vulnerability can be used to modify or delete database records, potentially causing data integrity issues and system downtime. According to ATT&CK framework category T1071.005, this vulnerability enables command and control communications through database manipulation, while T1210 covers the exploitation of remote services through SQL injection techniques.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2018-7269 require immediate action from development teams to upgrade to Yii 2.0.15 or later versions where the vulnerability has been patched. Organizations should conduct comprehensive security audits of their existing applications to identify any usage of vulnerable findOne() or findAll() methods with array parameters. Developers must implement proper input validation and parameter binding practices, ensuring that all array inputs are properly sanitized before database operations. The patch released in Yii 2.0.15 addresses the vulnerability by implementing proper array input handling and sanitization within the framework's database abstraction layer. Security teams should also consider implementing database activity monitoring and intrusion detection systems to identify potential exploitation attempts. Organizations utilizing older framework versions should also review their application code for proper parameter binding practices and ensure that all database queries follow secure coding guidelines to prevent similar vulnerabilities from emerging in the future.