SQL Injection Vulnerability in Simple Content Management System 1.0

A SQL injection vulnerability has been identified in code-projects Simple Content Management System (CMS) version 1.0. The vulnerability resides in the /web/admin/login.php file and stems from improper sanitization of user-supplied input within the User argument. An unauthenticated, remote attacker can exploit this vulnerability to inject arbitrary SQL commands, potentially leading to unauthorized data access, modification, or deletion. Publicly available exploits exist, increasing the risk of widespread exploitation. Given the simplicity of the targeted software, many small businesses or personal websites could be running vulnerable instances.

Attack Chain

1. The attacker identifies a publicly accessible instance of Simple Content Management System 1.0.
2. The attacker crafts a malicious HTTP request targeting the /web/admin/login.php endpoint.
3. The crafted request includes a SQL injection payload within the User parameter.
4. The application fails to properly sanitize the input, passing the malicious payload to the database.
5. The database executes the injected SQL commands, allowing the attacker to bypass authentication.
6. The attacker gains unauthorized administrative access to the CMS.
7. The attacker modifies the CMS content or extracts sensitive data from the database.
8. The attacker may install a web shell for persistent access and further exploitation.

Impact

Successful exploitation of this vulnerability grants attackers unauthorized access to the Simple Content Management System 1.0. This can lead to sensitive data exfiltration, modification of website content (defacement), or complete takeover of the underlying server. The vulnerable software is likely used by individuals or small businesses, potentially leading to a significant impact on their online presence and data security. Given the public availability of exploits, mass exploitation is a realistic threat.

Recommendation

• Inspect web server logs for requests to /web/admin/login.php containing suspicious characters or SQL keywords in the User parameter to detect potential exploitation attempts (see rule: “Detect SQL Injection Attempts in Simple CMS Login”).
• Monitor web server logs for unusual database errors originating from /web/admin/login.php, which may indicate successful SQL injection (see rule: “Detect Simple CMS SQL Injection Errors”).
• Implement input validation and sanitization on all user-supplied data, particularly within the /web/admin/login.php script, to prevent SQL injection attacks.
• Organizations using code-projects Simple Content Management System 1.0 should consider migrating to a more secure platform or applying security patches if available from the vendor.