Source: psirt@cisco.com
SQL injection vulnerability in the web interface in Cisco Unified Presence Server allows remote authenticated users to execute arbitrary SQL commands via a crafted URL, aka Bug ID CSCuh35615.
Cisco Unified Presence Server is vulnerable to a critical SQL injection flaw, allowing remote, authenticated attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands. This vulnerability could lead to complete system compromise, including data theft, service disruption, and unauthorized access to sensitive information. Successful exploitation grants attackers significant control over the server and potentially the entire network.
Step 1: Authentication: The attacker must first authenticate to the Cisco Unified Presence Server web interface. This could involve using valid credentials obtained through various means, such as credential stuffing or phishing.
Step 2: Crafted URL: The attacker crafts a malicious URL containing a SQL injection payload within a specific parameter. This payload is designed to execute arbitrary SQL commands.
Step 3: Request Submission: The attacker submits the crafted URL to the vulnerable server.
Step 4: Query Execution: The server, lacking proper input validation, incorporates the attacker's payload directly into a SQL query. The database server then executes this modified query.
Step 5: Command Execution: The attacker's injected SQL commands are executed by the database. This could include commands to read sensitive data, modify database records, or even execute operating system commands if the database server is configured to allow it.
Step 6: Data Exfiltration/System Compromise: The attacker leverages the executed SQL commands to achieve their objectives, such as exfiltrating data, gaining unauthorized access, or disrupting services.
The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation within the web interface of Cisco Unified Presence Server. Specifically, the application fails to properly sanitize user-supplied data within a URL parameter before incorporating it into SQL queries. This allows an attacker to inject malicious SQL code, which is then executed by the database server. The root cause is likely a missing or inadequate implementation of parameterized queries or prepared statements, coupled with a lack of input validation and output encoding. The absence of these security measures allows for the direct manipulation of SQL commands, leading to unauthorized data access and control.
While no specific APTs are definitively linked to this specific CVE, the nature of the vulnerability makes it attractive to a wide range of threat actors. Nation-state actors and financially motivated groups could exploit this for espionage or data theft. CISA KEV status is not explicitly mentioned, but the criticality of the vulnerability suggests it may be a target for exploitation.
Network Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS) can be configured to detect SQL injection attempts by monitoring for suspicious patterns in HTTP requests, such as the use of SQL keywords (e.g., SELECT, INSERT, UPDATE, DELETE, UNION) within URL parameters.
Web Application Firewalls (WAFs) can be deployed to filter malicious traffic and block SQL injection attempts. WAFs can analyze HTTP requests and block those containing known SQL injection payloads or suspicious patterns.
Review server logs (web server and database server logs) for unusual activity, such as unexpected errors, failed login attempts, or suspicious SQL queries. Look for patterns indicative of SQL injection attacks.
Monitor database server activity for unauthorized access, data modifications, or unusual query patterns.
Implement file integrity monitoring to detect unauthorized changes to critical system files.
Apply the security patch provided by Cisco immediately. This is the primary and most effective remediation step.
Implement input validation to sanitize all user-supplied data before it is used in SQL queries. This includes validating data types, lengths, and formats.
Use parameterized queries or prepared statements to prevent SQL injection. This approach separates the SQL code from the user-supplied data, making it impossible for attackers to inject malicious code.
Implement the principle of least privilege, granting database users only the necessary permissions.
Regularly update all software and operating systems to patch known vulnerabilities.
Conduct regular vulnerability assessments and penetration testing to identify and address security weaknesses.
Implement a Web Application Firewall (WAF) to filter malicious traffic.
Monitor server logs for suspicious activity and security events.