CVE-2008-0690 in mosDirectory
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in index.php in the mosDirectory (com_directory) 2.3.2 component for Joomla! allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the catid parameter in a viewcat action.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/15/2024
The CVE-2008-0690 vulnerability represents a critical sql injection flaw within the mosDirectory component version 2.3.2 of the Joomla! content management system. This vulnerability specifically targets the index.php file and exploits improper input validation mechanisms that fail to adequately sanitize user-supplied data. The flaw manifests when the application processes the catid parameter during a viewcat action, creating an exploitable condition that enables malicious actors to inject arbitrary sql commands into the underlying database layer.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the component's failure to properly escape or validate the catid parameter before incorporating it into sql query constructs. When an attacker submits a malicious value through the catid parameter, the application directly concatenates this input into sql statements without appropriate sanitization measures. This primitive approach to input handling violates fundamental security principles and creates a direct pathway for sql injection attacks. The vulnerability operates at the application layer and requires no special privileges to exploit, making it particularly dangerous as it can be leveraged by remote attackers without authentication.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft, as it provides attackers with the capability to execute arbitrary commands on the affected database server. Successful exploitation could result in complete database compromise, allowing attackers to read sensitive information, modify or delete data, and potentially escalate privileges within the database environment. The vulnerability affects the entire mosDirectory component and impacts all Joomla during this period, the potential attack surface was substantial, with numerous websites potentially exposed to this vulnerability.
Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including updating to the latest version of the mosDirectory component and Joomla platform or related applications.