PHP mysqli_real_escape_string() Integer Overflow Arbitrary Code Execution Vulnerability [CVE-2017-9120]
CVE Number = CVE-2017-9120
A vulnerability in PHP could allow an unauthenticated, remote attacker to execute arbitrary code on a targeted system.
The vulnerability is in the mysqli_real_escape_string() function, defined in the source code file mysqli_api.c, and is due to an integer overflow memory operations error. An attacker could exploit the vulnerability by performing a query that submits malicious input to the affected software. A successful exploit could allow the attacker to execute arbitrary code.
Proof-of-concept (PoC) code that demonstrates an exploit of this vulnerability is publicly available.
PHP has confirmed the vulnerability; however, software updates are not available.
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To exploit this vulnerability, the attacker must send a malicious request to the targeted system, making exploitation more difficult in environments that restrict network access from untrusted sources.
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Administrators are advised to contact the vendor regarding future updates and releases.
Administrators are advised to allow only trusted users to have network access.
Administrators are advised to run both firewall and antivirus applications to minimize the potential of inbound and outbound threats.
Administrators may consider using IP-based access control lists (ACLs) to allow only trusted systems to access the affected systems.
Administrators can help protect affected systems from external attacks by using a solid firewall strategy.
Administrators are advised to monitor affected systems.
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PHP has confirmed the vulnerability in bug #74544 at the following link: Integer overflow in mysqli_real_escape_string()
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At the time this alert was first published, software updates were unavailable.
Duncan is a technology professional with over 20 years experience of working in various IT roles. He has a interest in cyber security, and has a wide range of other skills in radio, electronics and telecommunications.