CVE-2018-16278 : Security Advisory and Response

This CVE involves a vulnerability in phpkaiyuancms PhpOpenSourceCMS (POSCMS) version 3.2.0 that allows unauthorized individuals to execute arbitrary SQL commands.

Understanding CVE-2018-16278

This CVE was published on August 31, 2018, by MITRE.

What is CVE-2018-16278?

The version 3.2.0 of phpkaiyuancms PhpOpenSourceCMS (POSCMS) contains a flaw that enables an unauthenticated user to run arbitrary SQL commands through the dir parameter in the ajax_save_draft function within the diy/module/member/controllers/Api.php file.

The Impact of CVE-2018-16278

This vulnerability could be exploited by malicious actors to manipulate the database, potentially leading to data theft, modification, or deletion.

Technical Details of CVE-2018-16278

This section provides more in-depth technical insights into the CVE.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in phpkaiyuancms PhpOpenSourceCMS (POSCMS) version 3.2.0 allows unauthorized users to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the ajax_save_draft function with the dir parameter.

Affected Systems and Versions

Affected Product: phpkaiyuancms PhpOpenSourceCMS (POSCMS)
Affected Version: 3.2.0

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability can be exploited by sending crafted requests to the ajax_save_draft function with a malicious dir parameter, enabling the execution of unauthorized SQL commands.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2018-16278 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Disable or restrict access to the vulnerable function or file.
Implement input validation to prevent malicious SQL commands.
Monitor and analyze database activities for any suspicious behavior.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch the CMS software to fix vulnerabilities.
Conduct security audits and penetration testing to identify and address weaknesses.
Educate users on secure coding practices and the risks of SQL injection attacks.

Patching and Updates

Ensure that the phpkaiyuancms PhpOpenSourceCMS (POSCMS) software is updated to a patched version that addresses the SQL injection vulnerability.