CVE-2007-4505 in RemoSitory
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in index.php in the RemoSitory component (com_remository) for Mambo allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the cat parameter in a selectcat action.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/30/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-4505 represents a critical SQL injection flaw within the RemoSitory component for Mambo CMS platforms. This vulnerability specifically affects the index.php file and manifests through the cat parameter during selectcat action execution. The flaw enables remote attackers to inject malicious SQL commands directly into the application's database layer without requiring authentication or privileged access. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization mechanisms within the component's parameter handling system, creating an exploitable path where user-supplied data flows directly into SQL query construction without proper escaping or parameterization.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-89, which categorizes SQL injection as a fundamental weakness in application security. Attackers can manipulate the cat parameter to inject malicious SQL syntax that gets executed by the database server, potentially allowing full database access, data exfiltration, or even complete system compromise. The vulnerability operates at the application layer where the input parameter is not properly validated or escaped before being incorporated into database queries. This type of injection vulnerability falls under the ATT&CK technique T1071.004, which covers application layer protocol manipulation, and specifically targets the database communication layer where the malicious payload executes with the privileges of the database user account.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft, as successful exploitation can lead to complete system compromise and persistent backdoor access. Remote attackers can leverage this vulnerability to escalate privileges, modify or delete sensitive data, and potentially gain shell access to the underlying server. The vulnerability affects the entire RemoSitory component ecosystem, making it a significant threat to any Mambo installation using this specific component. The attack vector is particularly dangerous because it requires no prior authentication and can be executed through standard web browser interactions, making it highly accessible to malicious actors.
Mitigation strategies should focus on immediate patching of the vulnerable component and implementation of proper input validation measures. Organizations should ensure all instances of the RemoSitory component are updated to versions that properly sanitize user input parameters before database processing. The recommended approach includes implementing prepared statements or parameterized queries to prevent SQL injection, along with input validation that rejects suspicious characters or patterns commonly associated with SQL injection attempts. Additionally, network-level defenses such as web application firewalls should be deployed to monitor and block suspicious SQL injection patterns. The vulnerability highlights the importance of following secure coding practices and regular security assessments to identify and remediate similar weaknesses in legacy systems.