CVE-2019-25019 in LimeSurvey
Summary
by MITRE • 02/14/2021
LimeSurvey before 4.0.0-RC4 allows SQL injection via the participant model.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/01/2021
This vulnerability exists in LimeSurvey versions prior to 4.0.0-RC4 where the participant model fails to properly sanitize user input before incorporating it into SQL queries. The flaw represents a classic sql injection vulnerability that allows attackers to manipulate database queries through malicious input in participant-related operations. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and parameterization in the application's database interaction layer, specifically within the participant model functionality.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs when user-supplied data is directly concatenated into SQL statements without proper sanitization or parameter binding. Attackers can exploit this by crafting malicious input that alters the intended SQL query structure, potentially allowing them to extract sensitive data, modify database records, or even execute administrative commands. This type of vulnerability falls under CWE-89 which specifically addresses SQL injection flaws in software applications. The attack vector typically involves manipulating parameters used in participant management operations such as search functions, data filtering, or record retrieval processes.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is significant as it provides attackers with unauthorized access to the underlying database containing participant information, survey responses, and potentially other sensitive data. Successful exploitation could lead to data breaches, privacy violations, and potential system compromise. The vulnerability affects organizations using LimeSurvey for collecting sensitive survey data, making it particularly dangerous for healthcare, financial, or government institutions. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to T1190 - Exploit Public-Facing Application, where attackers target web applications to gain unauthorized access to backend systems.
Organizations should immediately upgrade to LimeSurvey version 4.0.0-RC4 or later to remediate this vulnerability. Additionally, implementing proper input validation, parameterized queries, and regular security testing can help prevent similar issues. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of secure coding practices and proper database interaction protocols in web applications. Security teams should also consider implementing database activity monitoring and intrusion detection systems to identify potential exploitation attempts. Regular vulnerability assessments and penetration testing should be conducted to identify and remediate similar security flaws across the entire application stack.