CVE-2008-6068 in JoomlaDate
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in the JoomlaDate (com_joomladate) component 1.2 for Joomla! allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the user parameter in a viewProfile action to index.php.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/27/2024
The CVE-2008-6068 vulnerability represents a critical SQL injection flaw within the JoomlaDate component version 1.2 for Joomla! platforms. This vulnerability specifically targets the user parameter handling within the viewProfile action of the index.php script, creating a pathway for remote attackers to manipulate database queries through malicious input. The vulnerability exists due to insufficient input validation and sanitization of user-supplied data before incorporating it into SQL command structures. This type of vulnerability falls under the Common Weakness Enumeration category CWE-89, which specifically addresses SQL injection weaknesses in software applications. The attack vector is particularly concerning as it allows remote code execution without requiring authentication, making it accessible to any attacker with knowledge of the vulnerable component structure.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker crafts a malicious payload containing SQL commands within the user parameter of the viewProfile action. The component fails to properly escape or sanitize the input before executing database queries, allowing attackers to inject malicious SQL syntax that can manipulate the underlying database. This can result in unauthorized data access, data modification, or complete database compromise. The vulnerability demonstrates poor input validation practices and highlights the critical importance of implementing proper parameterized queries or adequate input sanitization mechanisms. Attackers can leverage this weakness to extract sensitive information such as user credentials, database schema details, or other confidential data stored within the Joomla! database. The impact extends beyond simple data theft as successful exploitation can lead to full system compromise and persistent backdoor access.
The operational impact of CVE-2008-6068 is severe for any Joomla platforms with this specific component version face significant risk of data breaches, service disruption, and potential regulatory compliance violations. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190, which covers exploiting vulnerabilities in web applications, and T1071.004, covering application layer protocol manipulation. The attack surface is particularly broad since Joomla! was and remains one of the most widely used content management systems, making this vulnerability attractive to automated exploitation tools. Security professionals must consider that exploitation can occur through automated scanning tools that identify common Joomla component vulnerabilities, making the attack surface even more extensive.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2008-6068 require immediate action including updating to the patched version of the JoomlaDate component or applying the relevant security patches provided by the Joomla! development community. Organizations should implement proper input validation and output encoding mechanisms throughout their web applications, particularly for any parameterized database queries. The implementation of web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems can help identify and block malicious SQL injection attempts. Regular security audits and penetration testing should include verification of component versions and patch status to prevent similar vulnerabilities. Additionally, organizations should follow security best practices such as implementing least privilege database access, regular database monitoring, and maintaining comprehensive backup strategies. The vulnerability underscores the importance of keeping all third-party components updated and regularly reviewing security advisories from software vendors. System administrators should also consider implementing database query logging and monitoring to detect anomalous database access patterns that may indicate exploitation attempts.