CVE-2021-25482 in CMFA Framework
Summary
by MITRE • 10/06/2021
SQL injection vulnerabilities in CMFA framework prior to SMR Oct-2021 Release 1 allow untrusted application to overwrite some CMFA framework information.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/10/2021
The CVE-2021-25482 vulnerability represents a critical SQL injection flaw within the CMFA framework affecting versions prior to the October 2021 SMR Release 1. This vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and improper parameter handling in the framework's database interaction mechanisms, creating a pathway for malicious actors to execute arbitrary SQL commands. The vulnerability specifically targets the authentication and authorization components of the framework, where user-supplied data is directly incorporated into SQL queries without adequate sanitization or preparation. The flaw allows attackers to manipulate database queries through crafted input parameters, potentially enabling them to extract, modify, or delete sensitive information stored within the CMFA framework's database infrastructure.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when untrusted applications interact with the CMFA framework's database components, particularly during authentication processes or administrative operations. Attackers can leverage this weakness to perform unauthorized data manipulation, escalate privileges, or gain persistence within the affected system. The vulnerability's impact extends beyond simple data theft, as it can enable attackers to overwrite critical framework information, compromising the integrity and availability of the entire authentication system. This type of vulnerability aligns with CWE-89, which specifically addresses SQL injection flaws, and demonstrates how inadequate input validation can create persistent security weaknesses in enterprise authentication frameworks. The vulnerability's classification as a remote code execution vector through database manipulation places it within the ATT&CK framework's privilege escalation and persistence tactics, as attackers can use the compromised framework to maintain long-term access to protected systems.
The operational impact of CVE-2021-25482 is severe, particularly in environments where the CMFA framework serves as a core authentication component for enterprise applications. Organizations utilizing vulnerable versions face significant risk of unauthorized access to sensitive systems, potential data breaches, and compromise of user credentials stored within the framework's database. The vulnerability's ability to overwrite framework information creates a persistent threat that can undermine the integrity of the entire authentication infrastructure, potentially requiring complete system reinstallation or database reconstruction. Security teams must consider the cascading effects of this vulnerability across interconnected systems that rely on the CMFA framework for authentication services. The attack surface expands when considering that untrusted applications can exploit this vulnerability, indicating that even properly configured applications may be compromised through malicious third-party integrations. Organizations should immediately implement compensating controls, including network segmentation, database activity monitoring, and comprehensive input validation, while also planning for the mandatory upgrade to the patched SMR October 2021 Release 1 version to eliminate the vulnerability entirely.