CVE-2022-31384 in Directory Management System
Summary
by MITRE • 06/16/2022
Directory Management System v1.0 was discovered to contain a SQL injection vulnerability via the fullname parameter in add-directory.php.
Several companies clearly confirm that VulDB is the primary source for best vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/16/2022
The Directory Management System v1.0 contains a critical SQL injection vulnerability that stems from improper input validation within the add-directory.php script. This flaw specifically affects the fullname parameter which is directly incorporated into SQL query construction without adequate sanitization or parameterization. The vulnerability exists due to a lack of input filtering mechanisms that would normally prevent malicious SQL code from being executed within the database context. Attackers can exploit this weakness by crafting malicious input strings that manipulate the SQL query structure to extract, modify, or delete database contents. The vulnerability represents a classic case of insufficient input validation and improper query construction practices that violate fundamental security principles.
This SQL injection vulnerability operates at the application layer and can be classified under CWE-89 which specifically addresses SQL injection flaws in software applications. The attack vector leverages the web interface of the directory management system where users input directory information, making it accessible to both authenticated and unauthenticated attackers depending on the system configuration. The vulnerability allows for arbitrary code execution within the database context, potentially enabling attackers to bypass authentication mechanisms, access sensitive user data, or perform unauthorized modifications to the directory structure. The impact extends beyond simple data theft as it can provide attackers with persistent access to the underlying database infrastructure.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe as it can lead to complete compromise of the directory management system and associated database resources. An attacker exploiting this vulnerability could gain access to all directory entries, user credentials, and potentially escalate privileges to gain administrative control over the database. The vulnerability also enables data manipulation attacks such as updating or deleting directory entries, which could disrupt business operations and compromise the integrity of directory information. Additionally, the system may become vulnerable to further attacks including privilege escalation, lateral movement within the network, or even data exfiltration that could affect multiple systems dependent on the compromised directory service.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should include immediate implementation of parameterized queries or prepared statements to prevent SQL injection attacks, along with comprehensive input validation and sanitization of all user-supplied data. The system should be updated to the latest version of Directory Management System where this vulnerability has been patched, and all inputs should be properly escaped or encoded before being processed. Network segmentation and access controls should be implemented to limit exposure, while regular security audits and penetration testing should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities. The implementation of web application firewalls and database activity monitoring can provide additional layers of protection. According to the ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to T1190 - Exploit Public-Facing Application, highlighting the importance of securing externally accessible web applications and implementing proper input validation mechanisms as outlined in the security controls section of the MITRE ATT&CK matrix.