CVE-2024-0525 in Url-shorting
Summary
by MITRE • 01/15/2024
A vulnerability classified as critical has been found in CXBSoft Url-shorting up to 1.3.1. This affects an unknown part of the file /pages/long_s_short.php of the component HTTP POST Request Handler. The manipulation of the argument longurl leads to sql injection. The exploit has been disclosed to the public and may be used. The associated identifier of this vulnerability is VDB-250695. NOTE: The vendor was contacted early about this disclosure but did not respond in any way.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/03/2024
This critical sql injection vulnerability exists within CXBSoft Url-shorting version 1.3.1 and earlier, specifically targeting the HTTP POST Request Handler component. The flaw is located in the /pages/long_s_short.php file where the longurl parameter is improperly handled during processing. The vulnerability arises from insufficient input validation and sanitization of user-supplied data, allowing malicious actors to inject arbitrary sql commands through the longurl argument. This represents a classic sql injection attack vector where untrusted input directly influences sql query construction without proper parameterization or escaping mechanisms.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker submits a malicious longurl parameter that contains sql payload characters and commands. The application fails to properly sanitize this input before incorporating it into database queries, enabling attackers to manipulate the underlying database structure. This could potentially allow for data exfiltration, unauthorized data modification, or complete database compromise. The vulnerability's classification as critical indicates the severe impact potential, as sql injection attacks can lead to full system compromise when combined with appropriate attack techniques. The fact that this exploit has been publicly disclosed and is actively being used underscores the immediate threat to affected systems.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft, potentially enabling attackers to escalate privileges, access sensitive user information, or even take complete control of the affected application. Given that the vulnerability affects the core url shortening functionality, attackers could manipulate the service to redirect users to malicious destinations while simultaneously accessing backend database information. The lack of vendor response after initial contact creates additional operational risk, as organizations cannot rely on official patches or updates to address this weakness. This vulnerability particularly affects web applications that handle user-generated content and database interactions, making it a prime target for automated exploitation tools.
Organizations utilizing CXBSoft Url-shorting should immediately implement mitigations including input validation, parameterized queries, and web application firewall rules to block known sql injection patterns. The implementation of proper input sanitization and output encoding techniques aligns with security best practices outlined in the owasp top ten and mitre attack framework. Additionally, network segmentation and monitoring for suspicious sql query patterns can help detect exploitation attempts. This vulnerability demonstrates the importance of maintaining current software versions and having robust vulnerability management processes in place. The attack surface expansion through sql injection vulnerabilities makes them particularly dangerous when combined with other attack vectors, as outlined in the attack pattern taxonomy. Organizations should also consider implementing database activity monitoring and regular security assessments to identify similar weaknesses in their web applications.