CVE-2008-5200 in Com Xewebtv
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in the Xe webtv (com_xewebtv) component for Joomla! allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the id parameter in a detail action to index.php.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/31/2024
The CVE-2008-5200 vulnerability represents a critical sql injection flaw within the com_xewebtv component of Joomla! content management systems. This vulnerability specifically targets the detail action functionality within the index.php script where user input is not properly sanitized before being incorporated into sql database queries. The vulnerability exists in the handling of the id parameter which is directly used in constructing sql statements without adequate input validation or parameterization mechanisms. Attackers can exploit this weakness by crafting malicious sql commands within the id parameter value, enabling them to execute unauthorized database operations and potentially gain complete control over the affected web application and underlying database infrastructure.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability aligns with common sql injection patterns classified under CWE-89 in the Common Weakness Enumeration catalog, which specifically addresses improper neutralization of special elements used in sql commands. The flaw demonstrates a classic insecure direct object reference vulnerability where user-supplied input flows directly into database query construction without proper sanitization. This vulnerability operates at the application layer and can be exploited through standard http requests targeting the vulnerable component's detail action endpoint. The attack vector is particularly dangerous as it allows remote code execution and database manipulation without requiring authentication or privileged access to the application.
The operational impact of CVE-2008-5200 extends beyond simple data theft to encompass complete system compromise and potential data destruction. Successful exploitation enables attackers to retrieve sensitive information from database tables including user credentials, session data, and application configuration details. The vulnerability can also facilitate privilege escalation attacks where attackers might elevate their access rights to administrative levels within the joomla installation. Additionally, attackers can modify or delete database records, potentially corrupting application data and disrupting normal business operations. The remote nature of this vulnerability means that attackers can exploit it from anywhere on the internet without requiring physical access to the target system.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2008-5200 should focus on immediate patching of the affected joomla component and implementation of proper input validation measures. Organizations should apply the official security patches released by joomla developers to address this specific vulnerability. Input sanitization techniques including parameterized queries and prepared statements should be implemented throughout the application to prevent similar vulnerabilities. Network-level protections such as web application firewalls can provide additional defense-in-depth measures by filtering suspicious sql injection patterns in incoming requests. Regular security audits and vulnerability assessments should be conducted to identify and remediate similar flaws in other components of the joomla installation. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of following secure coding practices and adhering to the principle of least privilege when developing web applications, as outlined in the mitre attack framework where such vulnerabilities are categorized under initial access and execution phases of cyber attacks.