CVE-2008-2632 in Com Acctexp
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in the acctexp (com_acctexp) component 0.12.x and earlier for Joomla! allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the usage parameter in a subscribe action to index.php.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/27/2024
The CVE-2008-2632 vulnerability represents a critical SQL injection flaw within the acctexp component of Joomla! versions 0.12.x and earlier. This vulnerability specifically targets the component's handling of user input through the usage parameter in the subscribe action of index.php. The flaw exists in the component's inability to properly sanitize or validate input parameters before incorporating them into database queries, creating an exploitable entry point for malicious actors.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper input validation within the Joomla! component architecture. When users submit data through the subscribe functionality, the usage parameter is directly concatenated into SQL query strings without adequate sanitization measures. This allows attackers to inject malicious SQL code that bypasses normal authentication and authorization mechanisms, potentially enabling full database access and manipulation. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-89, which specifically addresses SQL injection flaws where untrusted data is incorporated into SQL commands without proper escaping or parameterization.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft, as it provides attackers with the capability to execute arbitrary commands on the underlying database server. Successful exploitation could result in complete database compromise, data exfiltration, modification of sensitive information, and potential lateral movement within the affected system. Attackers could leverage this vulnerability to escalate privileges, create backdoors, or establish persistent access to the compromised Joomla! installation. The vulnerability's remote nature means that attackers do not require physical access to the system and can exploit it from anywhere on the internet.
From a threat modeling perspective, this vulnerability maps to multiple ATT&CK techniques including T1071.005 Application Layer Protocol: Web Protocols and T1190 Exploit Public-Facing Application. The component's widespread use within Joomla! installations amplifies the potential attack surface, as it affects numerous websites running vulnerable versions of the platform. Organizations running affected versions face significant risk of data breaches and system compromise, particularly in environments where database credentials are not properly secured or where the database server is accessible from the internet.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2008-2632 require immediate action including upgrading to the latest version of the acctexp component or applying the vendor-provided security patches. System administrators should implement proper input validation and parameterized queries throughout the application codebase, following secure coding practices that prevent SQL injection attacks. Network-level protections such as web application firewalls and database access controls should be deployed to limit potential damage from successful exploitation attempts. Regular security audits and vulnerability assessments should be conducted to identify and remediate similar issues in other components of the Joomla! platform and associated applications.