CVE-2008-0817 in Com Filebase Component
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in the com_filebase component for Joomla! and Mambo allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the filecatid parameter in a selectfolder action.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/28/2025
The CVE-2008-0817 vulnerability represents a critical sql injection flaw within the com_filebase component of joomla and mambo that incorporate the vulnerable com_filebase component, which was commonly used for file management and organization within these platforms. The flaw demonstrates a classic lack of proper parameter sanitization and input validation that has been documented in numerous security frameworks including the owasp top ten and cwe catalog.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker submits a malicious filecatid parameter value that contains sql injection payloads. The application fails to properly escape or validate this input before incorporating it into sql queries executed against the database. This creates an environment where attacker-controlled sql code can be executed with the privileges of the web application's database user. The vulnerability specifically targets the selectfolder action within the com_filebase component, which handles file category selection and display functionality. When the vulnerable parameter is processed, the sql query construction does not properly separate user input from sql command structure, allowing attackers to manipulate the query execution flow. The impact of successful exploitation includes potential data theft, data modification, unauthorized access to administrative functions, and in severe cases complete database compromise. This vulnerability type directly maps to cwe-89 sql injection and aligns with attack techniques described in the mitre att&ck framework under initial access and execution phases.
The operational impact of CVE-2008-0817 extends far beyond simple data corruption or theft. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to establish persistent access to affected systems, potentially using it as a foothold for broader network infiltration. The vulnerability affects both joomla! and mambo platforms, which were widely deployed in 2008 and continue to represent significant security risks for organizations that have not updated their systems. The flaw enables attackers to perform union-based sql injection attacks, where they can extract sensitive information from database tables including user credentials, configuration data, and application logic. Additionally, attackers can modify existing database records or even delete critical data, causing operational disruption and potential regulatory compliance violations. The vulnerability's remote exploitability means that attackers do not need physical access or network proximity to the target systems, making it particularly dangerous for web applications. Organizations using these platforms face significant risk of data breaches, service disruption, and potential legal consequences if they fail to address this vulnerability promptly.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2008-0817 require immediate action to address the underlying sql injection vulnerability. The primary defense involves implementing proper input validation and parameter sanitization for all user-supplied data, particularly within the com_filebase component. Organizations should apply the latest security patches and updates provided by joomla! and mambo vendors to remediate this vulnerability. The implementation of web application firewalls and sql injection detection mechanisms can provide additional protective layers against exploitation attempts. Database access controls should be reviewed and restricted to minimize the impact of potential successful attacks, ensuring that web application database accounts have minimal required privileges. Regular security audits and code reviews should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities within other components of the platform. The vulnerability highlights the importance of following secure coding practices and input validation techniques as outlined in industry standards such as owasp secure coding practices. Organizations should also implement monitoring and logging of sql query execution to detect anomalous database activity that may indicate exploitation attempts. Given the age of this vulnerability, systems that remain unpatched represent significant security risks that require immediate attention to prevent potential compromise and maintain regulatory compliance.