CVE-2005-3772 in Joomla
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple SQL injection vulnerabilities in Joomla! before 1.0.4 allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the (1) Itemid variable in the Polls modules and (2) multiple unspecified methods in the mosDBTable class.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/21/2019
The vulnerability described in CVE-2005-3772 represents a critical security flaw in Joomla framework, creating pathways for malicious actors to manipulate database queries through carefully crafted inputs. The flaw manifests in two distinct attack vectors: the first involves the Itemid variable within Polls modules, while the second targets multiple unspecified methods within the mosDBTable class, which serves as a foundational database abstraction layer in the Joomla! architecture.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate sanitization of user-supplied parameters before their incorporation into SQL queries. When the Itemid parameter is processed within Polls modules, the application fails to properly escape or validate the input, allowing attackers to inject malicious SQL fragments that can be executed within the database context. Similarly, the mosDBTable class methods contain insufficient parameter validation that enables attackers to manipulate database operations through crafted input sequences. This class serves as a core component for database interactions across various Joomla! modules, amplifying the impact of the vulnerability. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-89, which categorizes SQL injection flaws as weaknesses in software that allows attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands, and maps to ATT&CK technique T1190 for exploiting vulnerabilities in web applications.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe, as it allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands without authentication, potentially leading to complete database compromise, data exfiltration, and unauthorized access to sensitive information. Attackers could leverage this vulnerability to escalate privileges, modify or delete database records, extract user credentials, and potentially gain shell access to the underlying system. The vulnerability affects not just individual components but the entire Joomla in web applications, making this vulnerability particularly dangerous for organizations running affected versions. Security professionals should note that this vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of input validation and parameterized queries in preventing database injection attacks.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2005-3772 require immediate action including updating to Joomla installations and ensure that all database interactions properly sanitize user inputs. The vulnerability highlights the necessity of following secure coding practices and adhering to industry standards such as OWASP Top Ten and NIST cybersecurity guidelines for preventing injection attacks. Regular security auditing and code reviews should be implemented to identify similar vulnerabilities in other applications and prevent future incidents.