CVE-2008-1297 in Com Ewriting
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in index.php in the eWriting (com_ewriting) 1.2.1 module for Mambo and Joomla! 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 • 10/19/2024
The CVE-2008-1297 vulnerability represents a critical sql injection flaw within the eWriting component version 1.2.1 for Mambo and Joomla! content management systems. This vulnerability specifically targets the index.php script where user input is improperly handled during the selectcat action, creating a pathway for malicious actors to manipulate database queries through crafted input parameters. The flaw exists in the way the application processes the cat parameter, which is used to filter content categories, allowing attackers to inject malicious sql commands that bypass normal authentication and authorization mechanisms.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and sanitization within the eWriting module's database interaction layer. When the cat parameter is passed through the selectcat action, the application directly incorporates this user-supplied data into sql query construction without proper escaping or parameterization techniques. This primitive approach to sql query building creates an exploitable condition where an attacker can append additional sql statements to the original query, effectively taking control of the database operations. The vulnerability falls under the common weakness enumeration CWE-89 which specifically addresses sql injection vulnerabilities, and aligns with the attack pattern described in the ATT&CK framework under TA0006 privilege escalation and TA0008 credential access.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and multifaceted, as it allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary sql commands against the underlying database without requiring authentication. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to extract sensitive information including user credentials, database schemas, and application data. The potential for data manipulation extends beyond mere information disclosure, as malicious actors can modify or delete database records, potentially leading to complete system compromise. Additionally, the vulnerability enables attackers to escalate privileges within the application, as successful sql injection can provide access to administrative functions and user accounts stored in the database. The attack surface is particularly concerning in web environments where the eWriting module is deployed, as it requires no specialized tools beyond standard web exploitation techniques.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2008-1297 should prioritize immediate remediation through official security patches provided by the Joomla! and Mambo communities. Organizations must ensure all instances of the affected eWriting component are updated to versions that properly sanitize user input and implement parameterized queries to prevent sql injection. The implementation of proper input validation should include strict type checking, length limitations, and character set restrictions for the cat parameter. Additionally, database access should be restricted through proper privilege management, ensuring that web applications only have the minimum required permissions to function. Network-level protections such as web application firewalls can provide additional layers of defense, though these should complement rather than replace proper code-level fixes. Security monitoring and log analysis should be enhanced to detect unusual database query patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts, while regular security assessments should verify that all components are properly patched and configured according to security best practices.