SQL injection vulnerability in index.php in the BibTeX component (com_jombib) 1.3 and earlier for Joomla! allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the afilter parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/30/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-4502 represents a critical SQL injection flaw within the BibTeX component of Joomla content management systems. The vulnerability specifically resides in the index.php file where user input is improperly handled, creating an avenue for malicious actors to manipulate database queries through crafted input parameters. The afilter parameter serves as the primary attack vector, allowing remote threat actors to inject malicious SQL code that bypasses normal authentication and authorization mechanisms.
This vulnerability falls under the CWE-89 category of SQL Injection, which is classified as a fundamental weakness in application security that occurs when an application fails to properly sanitize user input before incorporating it into database queries. The attack exploits the lack of proper input validation and parameterization in the component's code implementation. When the afilter parameter is submitted with malicious SQL payloads, the application processes these inputs directly within the SQL execution context without adequate sanitization or escaping mechanisms. This flaw enables attackers to manipulate the underlying database structure, potentially gaining unauthorized access to sensitive information, modifying or deleting data, or even escalating privileges within the database environment.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft, as it provides attackers with the capability to execute arbitrary SQL commands on the affected Joomla installations running the affected com_jombib component, making it particularly dangerous as it could compromise numerous websites simultaneously. The lack of proper input filtering means that any user with access to the affected parameter can exploit this weakness, regardless of their authentication status within the application.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2007-4502 primarily focus on immediate remediation through software updates and patches provided by the Joomla versions that include fixed implementations of the BibTeX component, typically those released after the vulnerability disclosure date. Additionally, implementing proper input validation and parameterized queries can serve as defensive measures to prevent similar vulnerabilities from manifesting in other components. Network-level protections such as web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems can provide additional layers of defense by monitoring for suspicious SQL injection patterns in traffic. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of adhering to secure coding practices, particularly in the implementation of database interactions where user inputs are processed, aligning with ATT&CK technique T1190 for exploiting vulnerabilities in web applications. Organizations should conduct thorough security assessments of their Joomla! installations to identify and remediate similar vulnerabilities in other components that may be susceptible to SQL injection attacks, ensuring comprehensive protection against such threats.