CVE-2008-6841 in Com Dbquery
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in the Green Mountain Information Technology and Consulting Database Query (com_dbquery) component 1.4.1.1 and earlier for Joomla! allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the mosConfig_absolute_path parameter to classes/DBQ/admin/common.class.php.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/31/2024
The CVE-2008-6841 vulnerability represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw within the com_dbquery component for Joomla! platforms, specifically affecting versions 1.4.1.1 and earlier. This vulnerability resides in the classes/DBQ/admin/common.class.php file where the mosConfig_absolute_path parameter is improperly handled, creating an exploitable condition that allows attackers to inject and execute arbitrary PHP code on the target system. The flaw stems from insufficient input validation and sanitization of user-supplied parameters, which directly violates secure coding practices outlined in owasp top ten and cwe-434. The vulnerability operates at the application level and can be classified under the attack pattern category of remote code execution through insecure input handling.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability leverages the inherent trust placed in certain configuration parameters within Joomla! applications. When the mosConfig_absolute_path parameter is passed to the common.class.php file without proper validation, the application treats it as a legitimate path specification rather than validating it against expected input formats. This allows attackers to inject malicious URLs that point to remote servers hosting malicious PHP payloads. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it enables attackers to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the web server process, potentially leading to complete system compromise. According to the attack pattern taxonomy, this represents a classic remote code execution attack vector through parameter manipulation and insecure file inclusion practices.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends far beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with extensive capabilities to compromise the entire web application infrastructure. Successful exploitation can lead to data breaches, unauthorized access to sensitive information, and complete server takeover. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to establish persistent backdoors, escalate privileges, and conduct further reconnaissance within the network. The vulnerability affects not only the immediate application but also potentially exposes underlying database systems and other interconnected services that rely on the compromised Joomla! environment. Organizations using vulnerable versions face significant risk of data loss, service disruption, and regulatory compliance violations, particularly in environments where sensitive data processing occurs.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2008-6841 must address both immediate remediation and long-term security hardening measures. The primary solution involves upgrading to patched versions of the com_dbquery component or applying the vendor-supplied security patches. Organizations should also implement input validation controls that sanitize all user-supplied parameters, particularly those used in file inclusion operations. The implementation of web application firewalls and runtime application self-protection mechanisms can provide additional layers of defense. Security configurations should include disabling remote file inclusion features, implementing strict parameter validation, and conducting regular security assessments. From a compliance perspective, this vulnerability highlights the importance of maintaining up-to-date software versions and following secure coding guidelines such as those specified in the owasp secure coding practices and nist cybersecurity framework. Regular vulnerability scanning and penetration testing should be conducted to identify similar insecure coding patterns across the entire application portfolio.