CVE-2009-2789 in Com Groups
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in the Permis (com_groups) component 1.0 for Joomla! allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the id parameter in a list action to index.php. NOTE: the provenance of this information is unknown; the details are obtained solely from third party information.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/18/2017
The CVE-2009-2789 vulnerability represents a critical sql injection flaw within the Permis component version 1.0 for Joomla content management system ecosystem. The flaw exists in how the application processes user input through the id parameter within the list action of the index.php file, creating an exploitable condition that can be leveraged by remote attackers without requiring authentication or privileged access. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization mechanisms within the component's codebase, allowing malicious actors to inject arbitrary sql commands that are then executed by the underlying database server.
This sql injection vulnerability falls under the common weakness enumeration CWE-89 which specifically addresses sql injection attacks where untrusted data is incorporated into sql queries without proper sanitization. The attack vector operates through the manipulation of the id parameter in the url structure, where an attacker can craft malicious input that bypasses normal input validation checks. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it allows for complete database compromise, enabling attackers to extract sensitive information, modify database contents, or even escalate privileges within the application environment. The lack of proper parameterized queries or input sanitization means that user-supplied data directly influences the sql execution context, creating an environment where malicious sql code can be seamlessly integrated into legitimate database operations.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft, as it can lead to complete system compromise and unauthorized access to sensitive user information. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to enumerate database schemas, extract user credentials, modify or delete critical application data, and potentially establish persistent backdoors within the Joomla installation that utilizes this specific component, making it particularly concerning for organizations that have not updated their systems. The remote nature of the attack means that exploitation can occur from anywhere on the internet, without requiring physical access to the target system or knowledge of internal network structures.
From a threat modeling perspective, this vulnerability aligns with several tactics described in the attack framework, particularly those related to initial access and privilege escalation. The attack pattern follows the typical sql injection methodology where an attacker identifies an input field that is directly used in sql queries and then crafts malicious input to manipulate the query execution flow. Organizations should implement multiple layers of defense including input validation, parameterized queries, and regular security updates to mitigate this risk. The vulnerability underscores the importance of following secure coding practices and implementing proper input sanitization techniques to prevent injection attacks. Recommended mitigations include immediate patching of affected Joomla! installations, implementation of web application firewalls, and regular security audits to identify similar vulnerabilities within the application codebase.