CVE-2020-20800 in MetInfo
Summary
by MITRE
An issue was discovered in MetInfo v7.0.0 beta. There is SQL Injection via the install/index.php?action=adminsetup&cndata=yes&endata=yes&showdata=yes URI.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/15/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2020-20800 represents a critical SQL injection flaw within MetInfo version 7.0.0 beta that exposes the application to unauthorized database access and potential system compromise. This vulnerability specifically manifests through the install/index.php endpoint with parameters action=adminsetup, cndata=yes, endata=yes, and showdata=yes, creating a direct pathway for malicious actors to manipulate database queries and extract sensitive information from the underlying database system.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization within the MetInfo installation process. When the application processes the specified URI parameters, it fails to properly escape or filter user-supplied data before incorporating it into SQL query constructions. This allows an attacker to inject malicious SQL code that can be executed within the database context, potentially enabling full database access, data exfiltration, or even database manipulation. The vulnerability operates at the application layer and can be exploited without requiring authentication, making it particularly dangerous as it targets the installation phase where the application is most exposed.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft to encompass complete system compromise and unauthorized administrative access. Attackers can leverage this SQL injection to extract user credentials, administrative accounts, configuration data, and other sensitive information stored within the database. Additionally, the vulnerability may enable attackers to modify database content, insert backdoors, or escalate privileges within the application environment. The installation process being targeted indicates that the vulnerability affects the initial setup phase, potentially allowing attackers to compromise the entire system during the deployment process rather than after it has been established.
Security professionals should note that this vulnerability aligns with CWE-89 which specifically addresses SQL injection flaws in software applications. The attack vector follows patterns consistent with ATT&CK technique T1190 - Exploit Public-Facing Application, where adversaries target web applications for initial access. Mitigation strategies should include immediate patching of the MetInfo application to version 7.0.0 stable or later, implementing proper input validation and parameterized queries, and conducting thorough security assessments of the application's installation and configuration processes. Network segmentation and web application firewalls should also be deployed to detect and prevent exploitation attempts. Organizations should also review their database access controls and implement principle of least privilege to minimize potential damage from successful exploitation.