CVE-2009-2638 in Com Akobook
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in the AkoBook (com_akobook) component 2.3 for Joomla! allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the gbid parameter in a reply action to index.php.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/01/2024
The CVE-2009-2638 vulnerability represents a critical sql injection flaw within the AkoBook component version 2.3 for Joomla! platforms. This vulnerability specifically targets the gbid parameter within the reply action of the index.php file, creating a pathway for remote attackers to execute malicious sql commands against the underlying database system. The flaw exists due to insufficient input validation and sanitization of user-supplied data, allowing attackers to manipulate sql queries through crafted parameter values. This vulnerability is particularly concerning as it affects widely used content management systems and enables unauthorized access to sensitive data stored within the database. The vulnerability stems from improper handling of user input in the component's code, where sql queries are constructed using string concatenation rather than parameterized queries, making the application susceptible to malicious input manipulation.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability involves crafting specially formatted gbid parameter values that can alter the intended sql query execution flow. When the component processes the reply action with an unvalidated gbid parameter, the sql injection occurs because the application directly incorporates user input into sql statements without proper sanitization or escaping mechanisms. This allows attackers to inject malicious sql code that can manipulate database records, extract sensitive information, or even gain administrative privileges within the application. The vulnerability is classified as a classic sql injection attack pattern that aligns with common weakness enumeration cwes 89 and 77. The attack vector is remote and requires no authentication, making it particularly dangerous for publicly accessible web applications. The exploitation process typically involves appending sql payload characters such as single quotes, semicolons, or sql comments to the gbid parameter to modify the intended query structure.
The operational impact of CVE-2009-2638 extends beyond simple data theft, as it can enable complete database compromise and potential system takeover. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to extract user credentials, personal information, and application configuration data stored in the database. The vulnerability can also facilitate privilege escalation attacks, allowing attackers to gain administrative access to the joomla installation and potentially compromise the entire web server. Additionally, the vulnerability may enable attackers to inject malicious code into the database or modify existing records, leading to data corruption and service disruption. Organizations running vulnerable joomla installations are at risk of data breaches, regulatory compliance violations, and reputational damage. The vulnerability's impact is amplified by the widespread adoption of joomla platforms and the ease with which attackers can discover and exploit such flaws through automated scanning tools.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2009-2638 should focus on immediate patch application and input validation improvements. The primary remediation involves upgrading to the patched version of the AkoBook component or implementing proper parameterized queries to prevent sql injection. Organizations should also implement input validation mechanisms that sanitize all user-supplied data before processing, particularly for parameters used in sql query construction. Additional defensive measures include implementing web application firewalls that can detect and block sql injection attempts, restricting database user privileges to minimize potential damage from successful attacks, and conducting regular security assessments of web applications. The vulnerability highlights the importance of following secure coding practices such as those recommended by the owasp top ten project and the software engineering institute's secure coding guidelines. Network segmentation and monitoring for unusual database access patterns can also help detect exploitation attempts. Organizations should also consider implementing database activity monitoring solutions that can identify and alert on suspicious sql query patterns that may indicate sql injection attacks. The remediation process should include comprehensive testing to ensure that the applied fixes do not introduce new functionality issues while maintaining the application's core business logic.