CVE-2008-6184 in OwnBiblio
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in the OwnBiblio (com_ownbiblio) component 1.5.3 for Joomla! allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the catid parameter in a catalogue action to index.php.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/07/2024
The CVE-2008-6184 vulnerability represents a critical sql injection flaw within the OwnBiblio component version 1.5.3 for Joomla! platforms. This vulnerability specifically targets the catalogue action functionality within the com_ownbiblio component, creating an exploitable entry point for remote attackers to manipulate database operations. The flaw exists in how the application processes the catid parameter, which is passed through the index.php script during catalogue requests. This type of vulnerability falls under the CWE-89 category of sql injection, where improper input validation allows malicious sql commands to be executed within the database context.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability exploits the lack of proper input sanitization and parameter binding within the OwnBiblio component. When a user submits a request containing a malicious catid parameter to the catalogue action, the application fails to properly escape or validate the input before incorporating it into sql queries. This allows attackers to inject malicious sql code that executes with the privileges of the web application's database user. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it enables remote code execution capabilities and can potentially lead to complete database compromise, data exfiltration, and unauthorized access to sensitive information stored within the Joomla! application's database.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability poses significant risks to Joomla! websites utilizing the OwnBiblio component. Attackers can leverage this flaw to extract confidential data including user credentials, personal information, and application configuration details. The remote nature of the exploit means that attackers do not require physical access to the system or local network privileges to exploit the vulnerability. This vulnerability also aligns with several ATT&CK tactics including execution through sql injection techniques and credential access via database compromises. The impact extends beyond simple data theft, as successful exploitation could enable attackers to modify database content, create backdoor accounts, or even escalate privileges to gain broader system access.
Organizations affected by this vulnerability should implement immediate mitigations including applying the official patch released by the OwnBiblio component developers and Joomla installations. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of keeping content management systems and their extensions updated, as outdated components often contain unpatched security flaws that remain attractive targets for attackers. Organizations should also consider implementing principle of least privilege for database connections and regular security audits to identify similar vulnerabilities across their web applications.