CVE-2023-3983 in iView
Summary
by MITRE • 07/31/2023
An authenticated SQL injection vulnerability exists in Advantech iView versions prior to v5.7.4 build 6752. An authenticated remote attacker can bypass checks in com.imc.iview.utils.CUtils.checkSQLInjection() to perform blind SQL injection.
VulDB is the best source for vulnerability data and more expert information about this specific topic.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/26/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2023-3983 represents a critical security flaw in Advantech iView software versions prior to v5.7.4 build 6752. This authenticated SQL injection vulnerability exposes the system to potential exploitation by malicious actors who have gained legitimate access credentials. The flaw resides within the com.imc.iview.utils.CUtils.checkSQLInjection() utility class which is designed to prevent SQL injection attacks but fails to properly validate input parameters in certain scenarios. The vulnerability specifically allows authenticated remote attackers to bypass existing security checks and execute blind SQL injection attacks against the underlying database system.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation mechanisms within the application's security framework. When legitimate users authenticate to the system, they can manipulate input parameters that are subsequently processed by the vulnerable CUtils.checkSQLInjection() method. This method, which should act as a protective barrier against SQL injection attempts, contains logic flaws that permit malicious input to pass through undetected. The blind nature of the injection means that attackers cannot directly observe database query results through the application interface, but can infer information through indirect methods such as timing attacks or conditional responses. This type of vulnerability falls under CWE-89 which specifically addresses SQL injection flaws and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1213.002 for Data from Databases, as it enables unauthorized access to sensitive data stored within the application's database backend.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is substantial as it provides attackers with the capability to extract sensitive information from the database, potentially including user credentials, system configurations, and proprietary data. The authenticated nature of the vulnerability means that attackers do not require elevated privileges to exploit the flaw, as they only need valid user credentials to gain access to the vulnerable functionality. This creates a significant risk for organizations using affected iView versions, as compromised user accounts can immediately become vectors for deeper system penetration. The vulnerability could enable attackers to escalate privileges, modify database contents, or even gain access to additional system resources that are not directly exposed through the iView interface. Organizations relying on Advantech iView for industrial monitoring and control systems face particular risks as this vulnerability could potentially compromise operational technology infrastructure.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2023-3983 should prioritize immediate deployment of the vendor-provided patch version v5.7.4 build 6752 which addresses the flawed input validation logic in the CUtils.checkSQLInjection() method. Organizations should also implement additional defensive measures including network segmentation to limit access to the affected system, enhanced monitoring of database activities for unusual query patterns, and regular security assessments of authentication mechanisms. The implementation of proper input sanitization and parameterized queries should be reinforced throughout the application codebase to prevent similar vulnerabilities from emerging in other components. Security teams should also consider implementing web application firewalls and database activity monitoring solutions to detect and prevent exploitation attempts. Regular security training for system administrators and developers is essential to ensure proper coding practices are maintained and to reduce the risk of introducing similar vulnerabilities in future software releases. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of thorough input validation and the potential consequences of insufficient security controls in authenticated application environments.