Source: cve@mitre.org
SQL injection vulnerability in ESRI ArcGIS for Server through 10.2 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via unspecified input to the map or feature service.
ESRI ArcGIS for Server versions up to 10.2 are vulnerable to a critical SQL injection flaw, allowing attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands. Successful exploitation grants remote code execution, potentially leading to complete system compromise and data exfiltration, impacting organizations relying on geospatial data services.
Step 1: Payload Delivery: An attacker crafts a malicious SQL injection payload, typically embedded within a specially crafted HTTP request. This payload is designed to manipulate the SQL query executed by the ArcGIS for Server application.
Step 2: Request Submission: The attacker submits the crafted HTTP request to a vulnerable ArcGIS for Server instance, targeting the map or feature service endpoint.
Step 3: Input Processing: The ArcGIS for Server application receives the request and processes the user-supplied input. Due to the vulnerability, the application fails to adequately validate or sanitize the input.
Step 4: SQL Query Construction: The application incorporates the attacker-controlled input directly into a SQL query without proper escaping or parameterization.
Step 5: Query Execution: The vulnerable SQL query, now containing the malicious payload, is executed against the underlying database.
Step 6: Command Execution/Data Exfiltration: The injected SQL commands are executed, allowing the attacker to potentially read, modify, or delete data within the database. In some cases, depending on database permissions and configuration, the attacker may be able to execute operating system commands or gain further access to the server.
The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation within the ArcGIS for Server's handling of user-supplied data passed to the map or feature service. Specifically, the software fails to properly sanitize or escape user-provided input before incorporating it into SQL queries. This allows attackers to inject malicious SQL code, altering the intended query logic and enabling them to execute arbitrary commands against the underlying database. The root cause is a lack of parameterized queries or prepared statements, which would have prevented the injection of malicious SQL code. The specific function or logic flaw lies within the service's processing of requests related to map or feature data, where user-controlled parameters are directly concatenated into SQL statements without proper sanitization.
While no specific APT groups are directly linked to this CVE, SQL injection is a common technique used by various threat actors. The ease of exploitation and potential for high impact makes it attractive to both financially motivated and state-sponsored actors. The vulnerability's age and the prevalence of ArcGIS in critical infrastructure make it a potential target. This CVE is not listed in the CISA KEV catalog, but the underlying vulnerability type (SQL injection) is frequently targeted.
Network Intrusion Detection Systems (NIDS) should be configured to detect SQL injection attempts. Look for suspicious patterns in HTTP requests, such as the use of single quotes, double quotes, semicolons, and common SQL keywords (e.g., SELECT, INSERT, UPDATE, DELETE, UNION, WHERE) within input parameters.
Web Application Firewalls (WAFs) can be deployed to filter malicious requests. Configure WAF rules to block known SQL injection payloads and patterns.
Review server logs (e.g., web server logs, application server logs, database server logs) for unusual activity, such as unexpected database queries, errors related to SQL syntax, or attempts to access sensitive data.
Monitor database server logs for suspicious activity, such as unauthorized access attempts, unusual query patterns, or attempts to modify database schemas.
Implement file integrity monitoring to detect changes to critical system files that could indicate compromise.
Upgrade to a patched version of ESRI ArcGIS for Server (version 10.2.1 or later).
Implement a Web Application Firewall (WAF) to filter malicious requests.
Apply the principle of least privilege to database accounts. Limit the permissions of the database user account used by ArcGIS for Server to only the necessary operations.
Implement input validation and sanitization on all user-supplied data. Use parameterized queries or prepared statements to prevent SQL injection.
Regularly scan the system for vulnerabilities using vulnerability scanners.
Conduct penetration testing to identify and address security weaknesses.
Monitor server and database logs for suspicious activity.