CVE-2018-9019 in Data Integrator
Summary
by MITRE
SQL Injection vulnerability in Dolibarr before version 7.0.2 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the sortfield parameter to /accountancy/admin/accountmodel.php, /accountancy/admin/categories_list.php, /accountancy/admin/journals_list.php, /admin/dict.php, /admin/mails_templates.php, or /admin/website.php.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/16/2021
The CVE-2018-9019 vulnerability represents a critical SQL injection flaw discovered in the Dolibarr open-source business management software ecosystem. This vulnerability affects versions prior to 7.0.2 and exposes multiple administrative endpoints to remote code execution through improper input validation. The flaw specifically targets the sortfield parameter within several key administrative files including accountancy management interfaces and system configuration pages, making it particularly dangerous for organizations relying on these modules for financial and operational management. The vulnerability stems from the application's failure to properly sanitize user-supplied input before incorporating it into SQL query constructs, creating an avenue for malicious actors to manipulate database operations and potentially gain unauthorized access to sensitive organizational data.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through manipulation of the sortfield parameter in the affected URLs, where attackers can inject malicious SQL payloads that bypass normal input validation mechanisms. This flaw aligns with CWE-89, which categorizes SQL injection as a common weakness in software design, specifically targeting the improper handling of user input within database query contexts. The vulnerability demonstrates poor input sanitization practices where user-controllable parameters directly influence query construction without adequate escaping or parameterization, allowing attackers to inject malicious SQL syntax that can alter query behavior, extract data, or even execute destructive operations on the underlying database system. The impact extends beyond simple data theft to include potential system compromise through database manipulation and privilege escalation.
From an operational standpoint, this vulnerability poses significant risk to organizations using Dolibarr for financial accounting, inventory management, and business administration tasks. Attackers exploiting this flaw could access sensitive financial records, customer data, employee information, and system configuration details stored within the database. The remote nature of the attack means that threat actors do not require physical access to the system or local network presence to exploit the vulnerability, making it particularly attractive for widespread attacks. The affected endpoints cover critical administrative functions including accountancy models, journal listings, category management, and website configuration, which collectively represent core business operations that organizations depend upon for daily operations. This vulnerability also aligns with ATT&CK technique T1071.004, which describes the use of application layer protocols for command and control activities, as attackers could leverage this SQL injection to establish persistent access or escalate privileges within the database environment.
Organizations should immediately implement mitigations including upgrading to Dolibarr version 7.0.2 or later, which contains the necessary patches to address the input validation issues. Additionally, implementing proper parameterized queries and input sanitization measures within the application codebase would provide defense-in-depth protection against similar vulnerabilities. Network segmentation and access controls should be reviewed to limit exposure of administrative endpoints to untrusted networks. The vulnerability highlights the importance of regular security assessments and timely patch management, particularly for business-critical applications handling sensitive organizational data. Organizations should also consider implementing database activity monitoring and intrusion detection systems to identify potential exploitation attempts, as the SQL injection attack pattern can often be detected through anomalous database query behavior. The remediation process should include thorough testing of the patched version to ensure that all administrative functions operate correctly while maintaining the security improvements.