CVE-2008-2094 in Article module
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in article.php in the Article module for XOOPS allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the id parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/20/2025
The CVE-2008-2094 vulnerability represents a critical sql injection flaw within the Article module of the XOOPS content management system. This vulnerability specifically affects the article.php script where user input is not properly sanitized before being incorporated into sql query constructions. The vulnerability stems from the improper handling of the id parameter which is directly used in database queries without adequate input validation or parameterization mechanisms. Attackers can exploit this weakness by crafting malicious sql commands within the id parameter, thereby gaining unauthorized access to the underlying database infrastructure.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-89, which categorizes sql injection as a weakness where untrusted data is embedded into sql commands without proper sanitization. The flaw occurs at the application level where the XOOPS Article module fails to implement proper input filtering mechanisms, allowing attackers to manipulate the sql execution flow. The vulnerability specifically targets the id parameter in article.php, making it a classic example of improper input validation where user-supplied data directly influences database query construction. This type of vulnerability falls under the ATT&CK framework's technique T1071.004 for application layer protocol manipulation, where adversaries exploit weaknesses in application code to gain unauthorized database access.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe as it enables remote attackers to execute arbitrary sql commands on the affected system. Successful exploitation can result in complete database compromise, data exfiltration, unauthorized user account creation, and potential system takeover. Attackers may retrieve sensitive information including user credentials, personal data, and system configuration details. The vulnerability's remote exploitability means that attackers do not require physical access or local privileges to leverage the flaw, making it particularly dangerous for web applications. Organizations running affected XOOPS installations face significant risk of data breaches and potential regulatory compliance violations.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2008-2094 should prioritize immediate patch application from the XOOPS development team or vendor-specific security updates. Implementing proper input validation and parameterized queries represents the fundamental fix required to address this vulnerability. Organizations should deploy web application firewalls to detect and block malicious sql injection attempts targeting the id parameter. Input sanitization techniques including proper escaping of special sql characters and validation against expected data formats should be implemented. Additionally, database access controls should be reviewed to ensure least privilege principles are enforced, limiting the potential damage from successful exploitation. Regular security assessments and code reviews should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other application components, with particular attention to sql query construction practices that align with secure coding standards such as those outlined in the OWASP Top Ten and NIST cybersecurity guidelines.