CVE-2018-8734 in Nagios XI
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in the core config manager in Nagios XI 5.2.x through 5.4.x before 5.4.13 allows an attacker to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the selInfoKey1 parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/20/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-8734 represents a critical sql injection flaw within the core configuration manager of Nagios XI versions 5.2.x through 5.4.x prior to 5.4.13. This vulnerability specifically targets the selInfoKey1 parameter which is processed within the application's backend database operations. The flaw resides in how user input is handled during configuration management processes, creating an avenue for malicious actors to manipulate database queries through crafted input sequences. This type of vulnerability falls under the category of CWE-89 sql injection as defined by the common weakness enumeration framework, which classifies it as a serious security weakness that can lead to complete system compromise when exploited properly.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability allows attackers to inject malicious sql commands through the selInfoKey1 parameter, which is typically used for information retrieval operations within the configuration management interface. When the application processes this parameter without proper input sanitization or parameterized query construction, it becomes susceptible to sql injection attacks. The attacker can leverage this vulnerability to execute arbitrary sql commands against the underlying database, potentially gaining unauthorized access to sensitive configuration data, user credentials, or system information. This vulnerability specifically affects the core configuration manager component, which serves as a central point for managing system settings and configurations, making it particularly dangerous for operational environments.
The operational impact of CVE-2018-8734 extends beyond simple data theft, as successful exploitation could lead to complete system compromise and unauthorized administrative access. Attackers could potentially escalate privileges, modify critical system configurations, or extract sensitive information from the database that contains user accounts, system settings, and monitoring configurations. The vulnerability affects a widely deployed monitoring solution, meaning that organizations using affected Nagios XI versions face significant risk exposure, particularly in environments where monitoring systems contain sensitive operational data. The attack surface is broad since the vulnerability exists in core configuration management functionality that is frequently accessed by system administrators and monitoring personnel.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on immediate patching of affected Nagios XI installations to version 5.4.13 or later, which contains the necessary security fixes. Organizations should also implement input validation measures and parameterized queries throughout their applications to prevent similar vulnerabilities from occurring in other components. Security monitoring should be enhanced to detect unusual database access patterns that might indicate sql injection attempts. Additionally, implementing web application firewalls and input sanitization controls can provide additional defense in depth. The vulnerability aligns with attack techniques documented in the mitre att&ck framework under the command and control category, specifically targeting the persistence and privilege escalation phases where attackers might seek to maintain access and expand their control over compromised systems. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be conducted to identify similar weaknesses in other components of the monitoring infrastructure.