CVE-2008-2339 in SunShop Shopping Cart
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in index.php in Turnkey Web Tools SunShop Shopping Cart 3.5.1 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the id parameter in an item action, a different vector than CVE-2008-2038, CVE-2007-4597, and CVE-2007-2549.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/21/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-2339 represents a critical SQL injection flaw within the Turnkey Web Tools SunShop Shopping Cart version 3.5.1. This security weakness specifically targets the index.php script and exploits the id parameter during item action operations, creating a pathway for remote attackers to execute unauthorized SQL commands against the underlying database. Unlike related vulnerabilities such as CVE-2008-2038, CVE-2007-4597, and CVE-2007-2549, this particular flaw demonstrates a distinct attack vector that requires careful analysis of the application's input handling mechanisms. The vulnerability stems from insufficient validation and sanitization of user-supplied data, particularly when processing the id parameter that is used to identify specific items within the shopping cart functionality. This allows malicious actors to inject crafted SQL syntax that can manipulate the database directly through the web interface.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs when the application processes the id parameter without proper input filtering or parameterized query construction. When a user submits an item action request containing a specially crafted id value, the application directly incorporates this input into SQL query strings without appropriate escaping or validation measures. This design flaw enables attackers to manipulate the intended database query execution flow, potentially allowing them to extract sensitive data, modify database records, or even gain administrative privileges within the application's database environment. The vulnerability's classification aligns with CWE-89, which specifically addresses improper neutralization of special elements used in SQL commands, making it a classic example of SQL injection exploitation. Attackers can leverage this weakness to perform unauthorized database operations including data retrieval, modification, or deletion, depending on their access level and the database configuration.
The operational impact of CVE-2008-2339 extends beyond simple data theft, as it can compromise the entire integrity and availability of the shopping cart system. Remote attackers can exploit this vulnerability to access customer information, payment details, and inventory records stored within the database. The attack surface is particularly concerning given that the vulnerability exists in a web-based e-commerce platform where sensitive financial and personal data is routinely processed. Successful exploitation could result in complete database compromise, leading to data breaches, financial losses, and reputational damage for organizations using this software. The vulnerability's persistence across multiple versions of the SunShop application means that numerous installations could be at risk, particularly those that have not received timely security updates or patches. Organizations may face regulatory compliance issues and potential legal consequences if customer data is compromised through this vulnerability, as it directly impacts the security controls required for protecting sensitive information.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2008-2339 must focus on immediate defensive measures and long-term architectural improvements. The most effective immediate solution involves implementing proper input validation and parameterized queries to prevent SQL injection attacks, which directly addresses the underlying CWE-89 vulnerability. Organizations should apply the vendor-provided patch or upgrade to a patched version of SunShop Shopping Cart to eliminate this specific vulnerability. Additionally, implementing web application firewalls and input sanitization measures can provide additional layers of protection against similar attacks. Database access controls should be reviewed to ensure that application accounts have minimal required privileges, following the principle of least privilege as outlined in cybersecurity best practices. Regular security audits and penetration testing should be conducted to identify and remediate similar vulnerabilities in other application components, particularly focusing on areas where user input is processed and integrated into database operations. Network segmentation and monitoring solutions can help detect and prevent exploitation attempts, while comprehensive security awareness training for development teams can prevent similar issues in future application development cycles.