CVE-2009-0494 in Com Portfol
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in the Portfol (com_portfol) 1.2 component for Joomla! allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the vcatid parameter in a viewcategory action to index.php.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/22/2024
The vulnerability described in CVE-2009-0494 represents a critical sql injection flaw within the Portfol component version 1.2 for Joomla! content management system. This security weakness resides in the component's handling of user input parameters, specifically the vcatid parameter within the viewcategory action of the index.php script. The vulnerability allows remote attackers to manipulate database queries by injecting malicious sql commands through the affected parameter, potentially leading to unauthorized access, data compromise, or complete system takeover.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and parameter sanitization within the Joomla! component. When the vcatid parameter is processed without proper escaping or filtering, the component directly incorporates user-supplied data into sql query constructs. This primitive approach to parameter handling creates an exploitable condition where attacker-controlled input can alter the intended sql execution flow. The vulnerability manifests when the component receives the vcatid parameter through the viewcategory action, which then gets used in database queries without appropriate sanitization measures.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft, as it provides attackers with the capability to execute arbitrary sql commands on the underlying database system. Successful exploitation could enable attackers to extract sensitive information including user credentials, database schema details, and application configuration data. The remote nature of this vulnerability means that attackers do not require physical access to the system or local network privileges to exploit the flaw, making it particularly dangerous for web applications. Additionally, the vulnerability could potentially allow attackers to modify or delete database records, escalate privileges, or even gain shell access to the underlying server through database backdoor techniques.
Organizations using Joomla! with the vulnerable Portfol component should implement immediate mitigations including input validation, parameterized queries, and web application firewalls to prevent exploitation. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-89, which specifically addresses sql injection flaws in software applications, and represents a clear violation of secure coding practices outlined in the OWASP Top Ten. From an attack perspective, this vulnerability maps to ATT&CK technique T1190 for exploitation of remote services and T1078 for valid accounts usage, as attackers could leverage the compromised database access to maintain persistence. The component should be updated to a patched version or completely removed from production environments until proper security measures are implemented, as the vulnerability provides attackers with comprehensive database access capabilities that could lead to complete system compromise.