CVE-2018-9246 in PGObject::Util::DBAdmin
Summary
by MITRE
The PGObject::Util::DBAdmin module before 0.120.0 for Perl, as used in LedgerSMB through 1.5.x, insufficiently sanitizes or escapes variable values used as part of shell command execution, resulting in shell code injection via the create(), run_file(), backup(), or restore() function. The vulnerability allows unauthorized users to execute code with the same privileges as the running application.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/17/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-9246 represents a critical code injection flaw within the PGObject::Util::DBAdmin Perl module, which was subsequently exploited in LedgerSMB versions 1.5.x and earlier. This issue stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization practices during shell command execution, creating a pathway for malicious actors to inject arbitrary shell commands through database administrative functions. The vulnerability affects the core database administration capabilities of LedgerSMB, a widely used accounting and ERP software system that processes sensitive financial data for numerous organizations. The flaw exists in the module's handling of user-supplied parameters when constructing shell commands, where variable values are directly interpolated into system calls without proper escaping or sanitization mechanisms.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through four primary functions: create(), run_file(), backup(), and restore(), all of which construct shell commands using user-provided input. When an attacker can influence parameters passed to these functions, they can inject malicious shell commands that execute with the privileges of the running application process. This privilege escalation aspect is particularly dangerous because the database administrative functions typically require elevated permissions to perform their operations, potentially allowing attackers to gain full control over the database server and underlying system. The vulnerability manifests as a classic command injection vulnerability, which aligns with CWE-78, specifically targeting the improper neutralization of special elements used in OS commands. The attack vector leverages the principle of insufficient input sanitization, where user data flows directly into shell execution contexts without adequate validation or escaping.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with a means to compromise entire database environments and potentially escalate privileges to system-level access. Organizations using affected versions of LedgerSMB face significant risk of data breaches, unauthorized access to financial records, and potential system compromise. The vulnerability's exploitation requires minimal privileges since it targets functions that are often accessible to regular users or application accounts, making it particularly dangerous in environments where least privilege principles are not properly enforced. The attack can result in complete database compromise, data exfiltration, and potential lateral movement within network environments where the database server resides. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to T1059.001 (Command and Scripting Interpreter: PowerShell) and T1203 (Exploitation for Client Execution) with potential for T1078 (Valid Accounts) and T1566 (Phishing) if initial access is gained through other vectors.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2018-9246 require immediate patching of the PGObject::Util::DBAdmin module to version 0.120.0 or later, which implements proper input sanitization and escaping mechanisms for shell command construction. Organizations should also implement network segmentation and access controls to limit exposure of database administrative functions to untrusted users. Additional defensive measures include implementing proper input validation at multiple layers, using parameterized queries instead of dynamic command construction, and employing privilege separation techniques to reduce the impact of successful exploitation. Security monitoring should focus on detecting unusual database administrative activity and shell command execution patterns. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of following secure coding practices such as those outlined in OWASP Top 10 and NIST SP 800-53, particularly regarding input validation and command execution security controls. Organizations should also consider implementing application whitelisting and mandatory access controls to further limit potential exploitation scenarios.