CVE-2019-8429 in ZoneMinder
Summary
by MITRE
ZoneMinder before 1.32.3 has SQL Injection via the ajax/status.php filter[Query][terms][0][cnj] parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/11/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2019-8429 represents a critical SQL injection flaw within ZoneMinder versions prior to 1.32.3. This issue specifically affects the ajax/status.php endpoint where user input is improperly handled in the filter[Query][terms][0][cnj] parameter. The flaw allows authenticated attackers with sufficient privileges to execute arbitrary SQL commands against the underlying database system, potentially leading to complete database compromise and unauthorized access to sensitive surveillance data.
This vulnerability falls under the Common Weakness Enumeration category CWE-89 which specifically addresses SQL injection weaknesses in software applications. The technical implementation flaw occurs when the application fails to properly sanitize or escape user-provided input before incorporating it into SQL query constructs. The filter[Query][terms][0][cnj] parameter serves as the attack vector where malicious SQL payloads can be injected, bypassing normal input validation mechanisms. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it affects the status monitoring functionality of ZoneMinder, which is commonly used for surveillance system administration and monitoring.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft, as it can enable attackers to escalate privileges within the surveillance system and potentially gain access to all recorded video feeds, system configurations, and user credentials stored in the database. Attackers could manipulate surveillance data, delete records, or even inject malicious code that could compromise the entire surveillance infrastructure. The vulnerability affects systems that rely on ZoneMinder for security monitoring, making it particularly dangerous for organizations using this software for critical security applications. The attack requires minimal privileges since ZoneMinder's AJAX endpoints are typically accessible to authenticated users, making exploitation relatively straightforward.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2019-8429 primarily involve immediate patching of ZoneMinder installations to version 1.32.3 or later, which includes proper input sanitization and parameterized query implementations. Organizations should also implement network segmentation to limit access to ZoneMinder administrative interfaces, enforce strong authentication mechanisms, and conduct regular security audits of surveillance systems. The remediation process should include thorough testing to ensure that the patch does not negatively impact existing surveillance operations. Additionally, implementing database-level protections such as read-only database accounts for web applications and regular monitoring of database access logs can help detect potential exploitation attempts. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1071.004 which covers application layer protocol manipulation, and T1190 which addresses exploitation of remote services. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls to provide additional protection against similar injection attacks targeting the affected parameter structure.