CVE-2024-9774 in python-sql
Summary
by MITRE • 12/27/2024
A vulnerability was found in python-sql where unary operators do not escape non-Expression.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/07/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-9774 resides within the python-sql library, a Python package designed to facilitate the construction of SQL queries through Python code. This library provides an abstraction layer that allows developers to build SQL statements using Python objects and methods rather than writing raw SQL strings. The flaw specifically manifests in how the library handles unary operators, which are operators that operate on a single operand such as the minus sign for negation or the not operator. When processing unary operators, the library fails to properly escape or validate input that is not of the Expression type, creating a potential security risk.
The technical nature of this vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and sanitization within the python-sql library's handling of unary operators. When a developer passes a non-Expression object to a unary operator function, the library does not adequately sanitize or escape the input before incorporating it into the generated SQL query. This oversight can lead to injection attacks where malicious input is not properly neutralized, potentially allowing attackers to manipulate the SQL execution flow. The vulnerability represents a classic case of improper input validation and sanitization, which aligns with CWE-707 and CWE-89 categories in the Common Weakness Enumeration catalog.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple query construction, as it can enable attackers to perform unauthorized database operations. If an application using python-sql is vulnerable and accepts user input through unary operators, an attacker could potentially inject malicious SQL code that bypasses normal security controls. This could result in data leakage, unauthorized access to sensitive information, modification of database content, or even complete database compromise. The risk is particularly elevated in applications where user input is processed through the library's query building functions, as it provides a direct pathway for SQL injection attacks.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2024-9774 should focus on both immediate remediation and long-term architectural improvements. The primary solution involves updating to a patched version of the python-sql library where proper input validation and escaping mechanisms have been implemented. Organizations should also implement comprehensive input validation at multiple layers of their applications, ensuring that all data passed to SQL query builders undergoes proper sanitization. Additionally, developers should follow secure coding practices such as using parameterized queries, implementing proper access controls, and conducting regular security assessments of their database interaction code. This vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of maintaining up-to-date dependencies and implementing defense-in-depth strategies as outlined in the MITRE ATT&CK framework for database security operations.