CVE-2020-20981 in Metinfo
Summary
by MITRE • 08/12/2021
A SQL injection in the /admin/?n=logs&c=index&a=dolist component of Metinfo 7.0 allows attackers to access sensitive database information.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/18/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2020-20981 represents a critical SQL injection flaw within the Metinfo 7.0 content management system that specifically targets the administrative interface component responsible for log management. This vulnerability exists in the URL path /admin/?n=logs&c=index&a=dolist which handles the display of system logs and administrative activities. The flaw allows unauthorized attackers to inject malicious SQL code into the application's database queries through improper input validation mechanisms, potentially enabling them to extract sensitive information from the underlying database infrastructure.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate parameter sanitization within the Metinfo administrative module. When the application processes user input through the logs index component, it fails to properly escape or validate the parameters passed in the URL, creating an opportunity for attackers to manipulate the SQL query execution flow. This type of vulnerability falls under the Common Weakness Enumeration category CWE-89 which specifically addresses SQL injection weaknesses in software applications. The flaw operates by allowing an attacker to append malicious SQL fragments to the existing query structure, potentially bypassing authentication mechanisms and gaining unauthorized access to database records containing user credentials, system configurations, and other sensitive operational data.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data extraction to encompass potential system compromise and unauthorized administrative access. Attackers could leverage this vulnerability to enumerate database tables, extract user accounts with associated privileges, access confidential system information, and potentially escalate their privileges within the application. The vulnerability affects the administrative functionality of Metinfo 7.0, which means that successful exploitation could provide attackers with access to the full administrative interface, enabling them to modify content, delete records, or install malicious code. This represents a significant risk to organizations relying on Metinfo for their web presence, as the compromise of administrative access could lead to complete system takeover and data breaches.
Organizations affected by CVE-2020-20981 should implement immediate mitigations including applying the vendor-provided security patches, implementing web application firewalls to detect and block malicious SQL injection attempts, and conducting thorough security assessments of their Metinfo installations. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1071.005 which covers application layer protocol usage for command and control communications, as attackers could potentially use this vulnerability as an initial access vector to establish persistent presence within the target environment. Additionally, organizations should consider implementing input validation controls, parameterized queries, and regular security monitoring to prevent exploitation of similar vulnerabilities. The remediation process should include comprehensive database access controls, audit trail monitoring, and regular vulnerability scanning to ensure that no other components within the Metinfo framework remain susceptible to similar injection attacks.