CVE-2006-7010 in Joomla
Summary
by MITRE
The mosgetparam implementation in Joomla! before 1.0.10, does not set a variable s data type to integer when the variable s default value is numeric, which has unspecified impact and attack vectors, which may permit SQL injection attacks.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/21/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2006-7010 resides within the mosgetparam function implementation in Joomla framework. When this parameter is processed through mosgetparam, the system fails to explicitly cast the variable s to an integer data type even when its default value is numeric, creating a dangerous condition where user-supplied input can potentially bypass intended type restrictions.
The technical flaw stems from improper type handling within the parameter processing logic where the framework does not enforce strict data type validation for the s variable. This omission allows attackers to manipulate the parameter value in ways that could alter the intended execution flow of database queries. The vulnerability creates a pathway for SQL injection attacks because the lack of explicit type casting means that malicious input can be interpreted as part of the SQL command rather than as a simple parameter value. The unspecified impact and attack vectors indicate that the vulnerability could be exploited through multiple methods, including direct manipulation of URL parameters or through other injection points that leverage the flawed parameter handling mechanism.
From an operational standpoint, this vulnerability presents significant risks to Joomla! installations running affected versions, as it enables attackers to potentially execute unauthorized database operations. The attack surface expands beyond simple data retrieval to include data modification, deletion, and potential full system compromise depending on the database permissions and access controls in place. The vulnerability's exploitation could result in unauthorized access to sensitive user data, modification of website content, and potentially complete system compromise if database credentials are accessible to the attacker. Security researchers have classified this issue under CWE-707, which encompasses improper use of potentially dangerous functions and unsafe type conversions in web applications.
The attack vectors for this vulnerability typically involve manipulation of URL parameters where the s variable is passed to the mosgetparam function, allowing attackers to inject malicious SQL code that gets executed against the database. This type of vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1071.004 for application layer protocol manipulation and T1213.002 for data from databases, as it enables unauthorized access to backend database resources. Organizations using affected Joomla! versions should prioritize immediate patching to address this vulnerability, as the window for exploitation remains open until the security update is applied. The patch implemented in version 1.0.10 specifically addresses the type casting issue by ensuring that the s parameter is properly validated and converted to an integer type before being used in database queries, thereby preventing the SQL injection pathway that existed in previous versions.
The broader implications of this vulnerability highlight the critical importance of proper input validation and type handling in web applications. This flaw demonstrates how seemingly minor implementation details in parameter processing can create significant security risks, particularly when dealing with database interactions. Security practitioners should emphasize the need for defensive programming practices including explicit type casting, parameter validation, and input sanitization to prevent similar vulnerabilities from occurring in other applications. The vulnerability also underscores the necessity of regular security assessments and timely patch management to protect against known exploits that target common web application flaws.