CVE-2008-0606 in Shambo2
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in index.php in the Shambo2 (com_shambo2) component for Mambo and Joomla! allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the Itemid parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/16/2024
The CVE-2008-0606 vulnerability represents a critical sql injection flaw within the shambo2 component for mambo and joomla platforms. This vulnerability specifically targets the index.php file within the com_shambo2 component, creating a pathway for remote attackers to manipulate database queries through improper input validation. The vulnerability stems from the component's failure to properly sanitize user-supplied input when processing the Itemid parameter, which is commonly used in joomla's url routing system to identify specific menu items and content.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker crafts malicious input for the Itemid parameter that gets directly incorporated into sql queries without proper sanitization or parameterization. This allows attackers to inject arbitrary sql commands that execute within the database context, potentially enabling complete database compromise. The flaw operates at the application layer and can be exploited through standard http requests, making it particularly dangerous as it requires no special privileges or local access to the target system. The vulnerability aligns with cwe-89, which specifically addresses sql injection flaws, and demonstrates how improper input handling creates attack vectors for database manipulation.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft, as successful exploitation can lead to complete system compromise through database access. Attackers can extract sensitive information including user credentials, personal data, and application configuration details. The vulnerability also enables privilege escalation attacks where attackers can manipulate database permissions and potentially gain administrative control over the affected joomla installation. Additionally, this vulnerability can serve as a stepping stone for further attacks within the network, as compromised database credentials often provide access to other systems that share similar authentication mechanisms.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2008-0606 should focus on immediate patching of the affected joomla installations and components. Organizations must ensure that all instances of the shambo2 component are updated to versions that properly sanitize input parameters or completely remove the vulnerable component from the system. Input validation should be implemented at multiple levels including application code, web application firewalls, and database layer protections. The implementation of parameterized queries and prepared statements should be enforced throughout the application codebase to prevent similar vulnerabilities. Security monitoring should include detection of unusual sql query patterns and unauthorized database access attempts, as outlined in the attack technique described in the mitre attack framework for sql injection attacks. Regular security audits and vulnerability assessments should be conducted to identify and remediate similar input validation flaws across the entire application stack.