Source: disclosure@vulncheck.com
NoviSmart CMS contains an SQL injection vulnerability that allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL queries by injecting malicious code through the Referer HTTP header field. Attackers can craft requests with time-based SQL injection payloads in the Referer header to extract sensitive database information or cause denial of service.
NoviSmart CMS is vulnerable to a critical SQL injection flaw, allowing attackers to execute arbitrary SQL queries via the Referer HTTP header. This vulnerability can lead to data breaches, denial of service, and complete system compromise, posing a significant risk to affected organizations.
Step 1: Payload Preparation: The attacker crafts a malicious HTTP request. The request's Referer header is populated with a specially crafted SQL injection payload. This payload is designed to execute arbitrary SQL commands.
Step 2: Request Submission: The attacker sends the malicious HTTP request to the NoviSmart CMS server. The request might target a specific page or resource within the CMS.
Step 3: Header Processing: The NoviSmart CMS server receives the request and processes the Referer header. The application's code retrieves the value of the Referer header.
Step 4: SQL Query Construction: The application incorporates the Referer header's value directly into an SQL query, likely during logging, analytics, or user tracking operations. No input validation or sanitization is performed.
Step 5: Query Execution: The database server executes the constructed SQL query, which now includes the attacker's injected payload.
Step 6: Payload Execution: The attacker's SQL payload executes on the database server. This could involve extracting data, modifying data, or causing a denial of service (e.g., by triggering a long-running query).
Step 7: Result Retrieval (Optional): Depending on the payload, the attacker may receive results directly (e.g., data exfiltration) or indirectly (e.g., through error messages or timing analysis).
The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and sanitization of the Referer HTTP header within the NoviSmart CMS code. Specifically, the application directly incorporates the contents of the Referer header into SQL queries without proper escaping or filtering. This allows an attacker to inject malicious SQL code into the header, which is then executed by the database server. The lack of parameterized queries or prepared statements further exacerbates the issue, making it trivial to construct and execute SQL injection payloads. The root cause is a failure to implement secure coding practices, specifically regarding user-supplied input and database interaction. The application trusts the Referer header, which is easily manipulated by an attacker. The flaw is likely within a function that logs or processes incoming requests, potentially related to analytics or user tracking. The absence of input validation allows for the injection of malicious SQL commands, leading to unauthorized database access and control.
This vulnerability could be exploited by a wide range of threat actors, from opportunistic attackers to more sophisticated groups. The ease of exploitation makes it attractive to less skilled attackers. The impact (data breach, DoS) aligns with the goals of various APT groups. CISA KEV status: Unknown (as of the provided date).
Monitor web server logs for suspicious Referer header values containing SQL keywords (e.g., SELECT, UPDATE, INSERT, DELETE, UNION, OR, AND).
Implement a Web Application Firewall (WAF) with rules specifically designed to detect and block SQL injection attempts, including those targeting the Referer header.
Analyze database query logs for unusual activity, such as unexpected queries or queries originating from the web server.
Use intrusion detection systems (IDS) and intrusion prevention systems (IPS) configured to identify SQL injection patterns.
Monitor network traffic for unusual HTTP requests with malicious payloads in the Referer header.
Implement a security information and event management (SIEM) system to correlate and analyze security events.
Implement input validation and sanitization for the Referer header. Specifically, escape or filter any special characters that could be used in SQL injection attacks.
Use parameterized queries or prepared statements when interacting with the database. This prevents the direct inclusion of user-supplied input into SQL queries.
Update NoviSmart CMS to the latest version or apply any available security patches.
Implement a Web Application Firewall (WAF) to filter malicious requests.
Review and harden the database server configuration, including limiting user privileges and enabling auditing.
Regularly scan the application for vulnerabilities using automated tools.
Implement the principle of least privilege for database users.
Disable or restrict the use of the Referer header if it is not essential for application functionality.