Source: security@qnapsecurity.com.tw
An SQL injection vulnerability has been reported to affect MARS (Multi-Application Recovery Service). The remote attackers can then exploit the vulnerability to execute unauthorized code or commands. We have already fixed the vulnerability in the following version: MARS (Multi-Application Recovery Service) 1.2.1.1686 and later
MARS (Multi-Application Recovery Service) is vulnerable to a critical SQL injection flaw, allowing remote attackers to potentially execute arbitrary code on affected systems. This vulnerability could lead to complete system compromise, data exfiltration, and denial-of-service, severely impacting business operations. Immediate patching and security assessments are crucial to mitigate the risk.
Step 1: Payload Delivery: The attacker identifies an entry point in the MARS application, such as a web form or API endpoint, that accepts user-supplied input. Step 2: Malicious Input: The attacker crafts a malicious SQL injection payload designed to manipulate the application's database queries. This payload typically includes SQL commands to retrieve, modify, or delete data, or even execute operating system commands. Step 3: Payload Injection: The attacker submits the malicious payload through the identified entry point, typically by entering it into a text field or passing it as a parameter in a URL. Step 4: Query Execution: The MARS application, due to the lack of proper input validation, incorporates the attacker's payload directly into an SQL query. Step 5: Database Manipulation: The database server executes the modified SQL query, allowing the attacker to achieve their objectives, such as data exfiltration, unauthorized access, or remote code execution (RCE) if the database server is configured to allow it.
The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and sanitization within the MARS application's data processing logic. Specifically, the application fails to properly sanitize user-supplied input before incorporating it into SQL queries. This allows an attacker to inject malicious SQL code, manipulating the query's intended behavior. The root cause likely lies in a function responsible for handling user input, such as a web form or API endpoint, where the input is directly concatenated into an SQL query string without proper escaping or parameterization. This lack of proper input validation allows attackers to craft malicious SQL statements that can be executed on the database server, leading to unauthorized access, data modification, or system compromise. The specific function or code block responsible for constructing the SQL query is the primary area of concern, and the absence of parameterized queries or prepared statements exacerbates the vulnerability.
While no specific APTs are definitively linked to this specific CVE at this time, SQL injection is a common tactic employed by a wide range of threat actors, including financially motivated groups and nation-state actors. The potential for RCE makes this vulnerability attractive to attackers. This vulnerability is not currently listed on the CISA KEV list, but it is a high-severity vulnerability that could be added if actively exploited.
Monitor web server logs for suspicious HTTP requests containing SQL keywords (e.g., 'SELECT', 'UPDATE', 'INSERT', 'DELETE', 'UNION', 'OR', 'AND', etc.) in user-supplied input parameters.
Implement a Web Application Firewall (WAF) to detect and block malicious SQL injection attempts based on signature-based and behavior-based analysis.
Analyze database server logs for unusual query patterns, such as queries with unexpected lengths or those originating from unusual IP addresses.
Use intrusion detection systems (IDS) and intrusion prevention systems (IPS) to identify and block malicious traffic.
Monitor network traffic for unusual database-related activity, such as large data transfers or connections to unusual ports.
Implement security information and event management (SIEM) to aggregate and analyze security logs from various sources for suspicious activity.
Immediately update MARS (Multi-Application Recovery Service) to version 1.2.1.1686 or later.
Implement parameterized queries or prepared statements in all database interactions to prevent SQL injection.
Thoroughly validate and sanitize all user-supplied input before using it in any SQL queries. Use allowlists instead of denylists where possible.
Review and audit all code that interacts with the database to identify and remediate any remaining vulnerabilities.
Implement a Web Application Firewall (WAF) to protect against SQL injection attacks.
Regularly scan the application for vulnerabilities using static and dynamic analysis tools.
Enforce the principle of least privilege for database users.
Implement a robust logging and monitoring system to detect and respond to suspicious activity.