Source: cve@mitre.org
SQL injection vulnerability in the eluna Page Comments (eluna_pagecomments) extension 1.1.2 and earlier for TYPO3 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via unspecified vectors.
A critical SQL injection vulnerability exists in the eluna Page Comments extension for TYPO3, allowing attackers to remotely execute arbitrary SQL commands and potentially gain complete control of the web server. This vulnerability, present in versions 1.1.2 and earlier, poses a significant risk of data breaches, system compromise, and denial-of-service attacks.
Step 1: Payload Delivery: An attacker identifies the vulnerable TYPO3 installation with the eluna Page Comments extension (version 1.1.2 or earlier) installed. Step 2: Input Injection: The attacker crafts a malicious SQL payload designed to be injected into a specific input field within the page comments functionality (e.g., the comment text field). This payload could include commands to retrieve sensitive data, modify database records, or execute arbitrary commands on the server. Step 3: Request Submission: The attacker submits the crafted SQL payload through a web request (e.g., a POST request) to the vulnerable TYPO3 application. Step 4: Query Execution: The eluna Page Comments extension processes the attacker's input. Due to the lack of proper input validation, the malicious SQL payload is directly incorporated into a database query. Step 5: Database Interaction: The database server executes the injected SQL code, potentially leading to unauthorized access, data manipulation, or system compromise. Step 6: Result Extraction: The attacker may then extract the results of their injected SQL commands, such as sensitive data, or use the SQL injection to further compromise the system.
The root cause of CVE-2008-5796 lies in the lack of proper input validation and sanitization within the eluna Page Comments extension. Specifically, the extension fails to adequately filter user-supplied data before incorporating it into SQL queries. This allows attackers to inject malicious SQL code through input fields, such as comment text or user-provided parameters, which are then executed by the database. The flaw is likely within the code responsible for handling user input and constructing SQL queries for database interactions related to comment management. The absence of parameterized queries or other secure coding practices exacerbates the vulnerability, making it easier for attackers to craft effective exploits. The specific function or logic flaw is the direct use of unsanitized user input in the construction of SQL queries, leading to the SQL injection.
While no specific APTs are directly linked to this CVE, SQL injection is a widely used technique by various threat actors. It is a common attack vector for initial access and data exfiltration. The vulnerability's age and ease of exploitation make it a target for opportunistic attackers and automated scanning tools. This vulnerability is not listed on the CISA KEV at this time.
Web application firewall (WAF) logs showing suspicious SQL query patterns (e.g., use of SQL keywords like 'SELECT', 'UPDATE', 'INSERT', 'DELETE', 'UNION', 'OR', 'AND' in user input).
Database server logs revealing unusual query activity originating from the TYPO3 application, especially queries containing unexpected or malicious SQL syntax.
Network traffic analysis identifying POST requests to the TYPO3 application with payloads containing SQL injection attempts.
File integrity monitoring to detect changes to TYPO3 core files or the eluna Page Comments extension files, which could indicate compromise.
Reviewing web server access logs for unusual patterns of activity, such as multiple requests to the same page with different parameters, or requests containing suspicious characters or sequences.
Upgrade the eluna Page Comments extension to a patched version (if available). If no patch exists, consider removing the extension.
Implement a Web Application Firewall (WAF) to filter malicious SQL injection attempts.
Implement input validation and sanitization on all user-supplied data before it is used in SQL queries. This includes escaping special characters and using parameterized queries or prepared statements.
Review and harden the database server configuration, including limiting user privileges and enabling auditing.
Regularly scan the web application for vulnerabilities using automated tools.
Implement a defense-in-depth strategy including intrusion detection and prevention systems (IDS/IPS) and security information and event management (SIEM) solutions.
Ensure that the web server and database server are up-to-date with the latest security patches.