CVE-2024-0526 in Url-shorting
Summary
by MITRE • 01/15/2024
A vulnerability classified as critical was found in CXBSoft Url-shorting up to 1.3.1. This vulnerability affects unknown code of the file /pages/short_to_long.php of the component HTTP POST Request Handler. The manipulation of the argument shorturl leads to sql injection. The exploit has been disclosed to the public and may be used. The identifier of this vulnerability is VDB-250696. 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 in CXBSoft Url-shorting version 1.3.1 represents a significant security risk that allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary sql commands through the http post request handler component. The flaw exists specifically within the /pages/short_to_long.php file where the shorturl parameter is processed without adequate input validation or sanitization. The vulnerability classifies as cwe-89 sql injection according to the common weakness enumeration framework, which directly enables attackers to manipulate database operations and potentially gain unauthorized access to sensitive information. This type of injection vulnerability falls under the attack pattern category of command injection as outlined in the mitre attack framework, where malicious sql commands can be executed against the underlying database system.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker submits a malicious shorturl parameter through an http post request to the vulnerable endpoint. The application fails to properly escape or parameterize the input before incorporating it into sql queries, creating opportunities for attackers to inject malicious sql code that can modify, extract, or delete database records. The public disclosure of this exploit means that threat actors can readily leverage this vulnerability without requiring specialized knowledge of the specific application behavior. The lack of vendor response to early disclosure attempts creates an urgent security concern as no official patches or mitigations are currently available to protect affected systems.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft to encompass complete database compromise and potential system infiltration. Attackers could leverage this sql injection to access user credentials, personal information, and other sensitive data stored within the application's database. The vulnerability affects the core functionality of the url shortening service, potentially allowing attackers to manipulate the redirection mechanisms and create malicious links that could be used for phishing or other social engineering attacks. Organizations running affected versions of CXBSoft Url-shorting face immediate risk of data breaches and potential regulatory compliance violations under data protection regulations such as gdpr and ccpa.
Organizations should immediately implement mitigations including input validation, parameterized queries, and web application firewalls to protect against exploitation attempts. The absence of vendor response necessitates proactive security measures such as disabling the vulnerable component until a patch is available or implementing strict access controls for the affected endpoint. System administrators should monitor network traffic for exploitation attempts and conduct comprehensive vulnerability assessments to identify any additional vulnerable components within the application stack. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of maintaining current security patches and establishing effective communication channels with software vendors to ensure timely resolution of security issues. Organizations should also consider implementing database activity monitoring to detect unauthorized sql injection attempts and maintain regular security audits to identify similar vulnerabilities in other applications and systems.