CVE-2020-22209 in 74cms
Summary
by MITRE • 06/17/2021
SQL Injection in 74cms 3.2.0 via the query parameter to plus/ajax_common.php.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/21/2021
The vulnerability CVE-2020-22209 represents a critical SQL injection flaw discovered in the 74cms content management system version 3.2.0. This vulnerability specifically affects the plus/ajax_common.php script where user input is improperly handled through the query parameter. The flaw allows an attacker to inject malicious SQL code directly into the database query execution flow, potentially compromising the entire database infrastructure. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and sanitization mechanisms within the application's parameter processing logic, creating an exploitable entry point for malicious actors seeking to manipulate or extract sensitive data from the underlying database system.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability follows a classic SQL injection pattern where the query parameter is directly concatenated into SQL statements without proper escaping or parameterization. According to CWE-89, this vulnerability maps directly to the CWE-89 category of SQL injection flaws, which are among the most prevalent and dangerous web application vulnerabilities. The attack vector is particularly concerning because it leverages an AJAX endpoint, which typically handles asynchronous requests and often processes user data without the same level of security scrutiny applied to traditional web forms. This makes the vulnerability more accessible to attackers who can exploit it through standard web browser interactions without requiring advanced technical knowledge.
The operational impact of CVE-2020-22209 extends far beyond simple data theft, as it provides attackers with the capability to execute arbitrary database commands and potentially gain full administrative control over the CMS. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to extract sensitive information including user credentials, personal data, and system configurations. The implications are severe for organizations relying on 74cms, as the vulnerability could lead to complete system compromise, data breaches, and unauthorized modifications to the website content. The vulnerability also aligns with ATT&CK technique T1071.004, which describes the use of application layer protocols for command and control activities, as attackers could use the SQL injection to establish persistent access to the database infrastructure.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate implementation of input validation and parameterized query execution throughout the affected application components. Organizations should implement proper input sanitization measures that filter and validate all user-supplied data before processing, particularly focusing on the query parameter in the plus/ajax_common.php script. The recommended approach involves transitioning from dynamic SQL construction to prepared statements and parameterized queries, which fundamentally prevents SQL injection attacks by separating SQL code from data. Additionally, implementing web application firewalls and input validation rules can provide additional layers of protection. Security monitoring should be enhanced to detect unusual database query patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts, and regular security audits should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other application components. The vulnerability also emphasizes the importance of keeping CMS systems updated with the latest security patches, as this flaw was likely addressed in subsequent releases of the 74cms platform.