CVE-2019-16682 in url_redirect Extension
Summary
by MITRE
The url_redirect (aka URL redirect) extension through 1.2.1 for TYPO3 fails to properly sanitize user input and is susceptible to SQL Injection.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/18/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2019-16682 affects the url_redirect extension for TYPO3 content management system, specifically versions through 1.2.1. This issue represents a critical security flaw that arises from insufficient input validation and sanitization within the extension's handling of user-provided data. The vulnerability stems from the extension's failure to properly sanitize parameters before incorporating them into SQL queries, creating an environment where malicious actors can manipulate database operations through carefully crafted input.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-89, which specifically addresses SQL injection flaws in software applications. When the url_redirect extension processes user input through its redirect functionality, it fails to implement proper parameterized queries or input sanitization mechanisms. This allows attackers to inject malicious SQL code that gets executed within the database context, potentially enabling unauthorized data access, modification, or deletion. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it operates at the database interaction layer, where successful exploitation can result in complete compromise of the underlying data store.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability presents significant risks to TYPO3 installations using the affected extension. Attackers can leverage this weakness to perform unauthorized database operations including but not limited to data exfiltration, privilege escalation, or even complete database corruption. The impact extends beyond immediate data compromise as successful exploitation may enable attackers to establish persistent access points within the system. The vulnerability's presence in the redirect functionality means that any user interaction with the extension's features could potentially trigger the malicious SQL injection payload, making it particularly dangerous in environments where user input is common.
Organizations utilizing TYPO3 with the url_redirect extension must implement immediate mitigations to address this vulnerability. The primary recommendation involves upgrading to a patched version of the extension that properly implements input sanitization and parameterized queries. Additionally, implementing proper input validation at multiple layers including application-level and database-level controls can provide defense-in-depth. Network segmentation and database access controls should be reviewed to limit potential damage from successful exploitation attempts. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of maintaining up-to-date security practices including regular security audits, input validation testing, and adherence to secure coding standards. Organizations should consider implementing web application firewalls and monitoring systems to detect potential exploitation attempts. This vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper input sanitization and parameterized query usage as outlined in the OWASP Top Ten and MITRE ATT&CK framework's database injection techniques, emphasizing that even seemingly simple functionality can represent significant security risks when proper security controls are not implemented.