CVE-2008-0855 in Com Facileforms
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in the Facile Forms (com_facileforms) component for Joomla! and Mambo allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the catid parameter to index.php.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/23/2025
The CVE-2008-0855 vulnerability represents a critical sql injection flaw within the facile forms component for joomla and mambo content management systems. This vulnerability specifically targets the catid parameter in the index.php script, creating an exploitable condition that allows remote attackers to inject malicious sql commands directly into the application's database layer. The flaw stems from insufficient input validation and sanitization of user-supplied data, particularly affecting the category identifier parameter that is processed without proper security controls.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability follows standard sql injection patterns where the application fails to properly escape or parameterize user input before incorporating it into sql query constructs. When an attacker manipulates the catid parameter, the application directly concatenates the malicious input into sql statements without adequate sanitization measures, enabling the execution of unauthorized database operations. This vulnerability falls under the common weakness enumeration category of cwe-89 sql injection, which is classified as a high-risk vulnerability due to its potential for data compromise and system exploitation. The attack vector operates entirely through web-based interactions, requiring no local system access or elevated privileges from the attacker's perspective.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft to encompass complete database compromise and potential system takeover. Remote attackers can leverage this flaw to extract sensitive information including user credentials, database schemas, and application configuration details. The vulnerability also enables attackers to modify or delete database records, potentially leading to service disruption or data corruption. In the context of content management systems like joomla and mambo, this vulnerability can result in complete administrative control over affected sites, allowing attackers to modify content, add malicious users, or even install backdoors for persistent access. The attack can be executed entirely through standard web browser interactions, making it particularly dangerous as it requires minimal technical expertise to exploit effectively.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2008-0855 should focus on immediate patch application and input validation reinforcement. System administrators must ensure that all affected joomla and mambo installations receive the appropriate security updates provided by the respective vendors. Additionally, implementing proper parameterized queries and input sanitization measures can prevent similar vulnerabilities from occurring in custom applications. Network-level protections including web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems can provide additional layers of defense against exploitation attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of secure coding practices and regular security assessments, as highlighted in the attack technique framework where such flaws represent common entry points for advanced persistent threats. Organizations should also implement comprehensive monitoring and logging to detect potential exploitation attempts and maintain up-to-date vulnerability assessments to identify similar weaknesses in their application portfolios.