CVE-2019-15566 in App
Summary
by MITRE
The Alfresco application before 1.8.7 for Android allows SQL injection in HistorySearchProvider.java.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/04/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2019-15566 represents a critical security flaw within the Alfresco mobile application for android platforms. This issue affects versions prior to 1.8.7 and stems from improper input validation within the HistorySearchProvider.java component. The flaw enables malicious actors to inject arbitrary SQL commands through crafted input parameters, potentially compromising the underlying database system and exposing sensitive organizational data.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability resides in the HistorySearchProvider.java file where user-supplied input is directly concatenated into SQL query strings without proper sanitization or parameterization. This primitive approach to database query construction creates an environment where attackers can manipulate the intended query execution flow by injecting malicious SQL syntax. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-89 which specifically addresses SQL injection flaws, where insufficient input validation allows attackers to execute unauthorized database operations. Attackers could leverage this weakness to extract confidential information, modify database records, or potentially escalate privileges within the application's database environment.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft, as it represents a fundamental breach in the application's security architecture. Mobile users of Alfresco who interact with search functionality could unknowingly trigger SQL injection attacks that compromise not only their own data but potentially the entire organization's repository. The attack surface is particularly concerning given that mobile applications often handle sensitive business data and may lack the robust security controls typically found in server-side environments. This vulnerability could enable adversaries to perform unauthorized database operations including but not limited to data exfiltration, data manipulation, and potentially system enumeration that could facilitate further attacks.
Organizations utilizing the affected Alfresco mobile application should prioritize immediate remediation by upgrading to version 1.8.7 or later, which implements proper input validation and parameterized query construction. Additional mitigations include implementing web application firewalls to detect and block suspicious SQL injection patterns, conducting comprehensive security testing of mobile applications, and establishing robust input validation controls throughout the application's codebase. Security teams should also consider implementing database activity monitoring to detect anomalous query patterns that may indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of following secure coding practices and adheres to ATT&CK technique T1071.004 which covers application layer protocol manipulation, particularly in mobile application contexts where database interactions are frequent and critical.