Source: cve@mitre.org
SQL injection vulnerability in the CMS Poll system (cms_poll) extension before 0.1.1 for TYPO3 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via unspecified vectors.
A critical SQL injection vulnerability exists in the CMS Poll system extension for TYPO3, allowing attackers to remotely execute arbitrary SQL commands. This can lead to complete compromise of the web server, including data theft, system takeover, and potential lateral movement within the network.
Step 1: Identify Target: The attacker identifies a TYPO3 installation with the vulnerable cms_poll extension installed and active.
Step 2: Craft Malicious Input: The attacker crafts a malicious SQL injection payload designed to exploit the vulnerability. This payload is typically injected into an input field within the cms_poll extension, such as a poll option or user response.
Step 3: Submit Payload: The attacker submits the crafted payload to the vulnerable web application.
Step 4: Query Execution: The cms_poll extension processes the input, but due to the lack of proper sanitization, the attacker's SQL code is directly incorporated into a database query.
Step 5: SQL Command Execution: The database server executes the injected SQL commands, allowing the attacker to perform actions such as reading sensitive data, modifying database contents, or even executing operating system commands (depending on database configuration and privileges).
Step 6: Data Exfiltration/System Compromise: The attacker leverages the executed SQL commands to achieve their objectives, which could include data exfiltration, account takeover, or complete system compromise.
The vulnerability stems from a lack of proper input validation and sanitization within the CMS Poll extension's code. Specifically, the extension fails to adequately filter user-supplied data before incorporating it into SQL queries. This allows an attacker to inject malicious SQL code through crafted input fields, such as those related to poll options or user responses. The absence of parameterized queries or prepared statements further exacerbates the issue, making it easier for attackers to manipulate the database.
This vulnerability is a common attack vector and could be exploited by a wide range of threat actors, from opportunistic attackers to more sophisticated groups. There is no specific APT attribution available, but the ease of exploitation makes it attractive to various actors. Not listed in CISA KEV.
Web Application Firewall (WAF) logs showing suspicious SQL injection attempts, such as the use of keywords like 'SELECT', 'UPDATE', 'INSERT', 'DROP', 'UNION', or special characters like single quotes (') and semicolons (;).
Database server logs revealing unusual query patterns or unexpected database activity, such as unauthorized data access or modifications.
Network traffic analysis identifying unusual HTTP requests containing SQL injection payloads in POST or GET parameters.
File integrity monitoring (FIM) to detect unauthorized changes to web application files or database files.
Intrusion Detection System (IDS) alerts triggered by known SQL injection signatures.
Update the cms_poll extension to version 0.1.1 or later. This is the primary and most effective remediation step.
Implement a Web Application Firewall (WAF) to filter malicious requests and block SQL injection attempts.
Use parameterized queries or prepared statements in all database interactions to prevent SQL injection vulnerabilities.
Thoroughly validate and sanitize all user-supplied input before using it in SQL queries.
Enforce the principle of least privilege for database users, granting only the necessary permissions.
Regularly scan the web application for vulnerabilities using automated tools.
Implement a robust logging and monitoring system to detect and respond to suspicious activity.