CVE-2009-3154 in Com Aclassf
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in the Almond Classifieds (com_aclassf) component 7.5 for Joomla! allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the replid parameter in a manw_repl add_form action to index.php, a different vector than CVE-2009-2567.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/07/2024
The CVE-2009-3154 vulnerability represents a critical SQL injection flaw within the Almond Classifieds component version 7.5 for Joomla! platforms. This vulnerability specifically targets the manw_repl add_form action within the com_aclassf component, creating a pathway for remote attackers to execute malicious SQL commands against the underlying database. The flaw manifests through the replid parameter, which is improperly validated and sanitized before being incorporated into database queries. Unlike CVE-2009-2567 which addressed similar injection vectors, this vulnerability operates through a distinct attack vector that exploits the component's handling of user input in a different functional context. The vulnerability falls under CWE-89, which specifically addresses SQL injection weaknesses in software applications. This classification indicates that the vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and improper parameter handling within the application's database interaction layer. The attack surface is particularly concerning as it allows unauthorized remote execution of database commands without requiring authentication or administrative privileges. The operational impact extends beyond simple data theft, as attackers can potentially escalate privileges, modify database structures, and gain persistent access to the application's backend systems.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker crafts malicious input for the replid parameter within the manw_repl add_form action of index.php. The component fails to properly escape or validate the input before incorporating it into SQL queries, enabling attackers to inject malicious SQL code that executes within the database context. This flaw typically allows for union-based attacks where attackers can extract sensitive information from database tables, perform unauthorized data modifications, or even execute system commands depending on the database configuration and permissions. The vulnerability's remote nature means that attackers can exploit it from anywhere on the internet without requiring physical access to the server or knowledge of administrative credentials. The specific vector of exploitation involves manipulating the replid parameter to inject SQL syntax that bypasses normal input validation mechanisms, leading to unauthorized database operations that can compromise the entire application infrastructure.
Organizations running Joomla! installations with the affected Almond Classifieds component face significant operational risks from this vulnerability. The potential for data breach extends to user credentials, classified listings, and any sensitive information stored within the database. Attackers could leverage this vulnerability to gain persistent access to the system, modify or delete critical data, and potentially use the compromised platform as a launch point for further attacks within the network. The impact is particularly severe for classifieds platforms where user data privacy and content integrity are paramount. From a compliance perspective, this vulnerability could result in violations of data protection regulations and industry standards such as pci dss, as it creates opportunities for unauthorized data access and modification. The vulnerability's exploitation does not require advanced technical skills, making it particularly dangerous as it can be targeted by automated attack tools and script kiddies. Security professionals must consider this vulnerability as part of their broader threat landscape, as it represents a common entry point for attackers seeking to compromise web applications.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2009-3154 should prioritize immediate patching of the affected Joomla! component to version 7.6 or later, which includes proper input validation and parameter sanitization. Organizations should implement web application firewalls to monitor and filter suspicious SQL injection patterns targeting the affected parameter. Input validation should be strengthened to ensure all user-supplied data undergoes proper sanitization before database interaction. Database access controls must be reviewed to limit the privileges of the application's database user account, preventing attackers from executing system commands or accessing unauthorized data. Additionally, regular security assessments should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other components and plugins. The implementation of proper error handling and logging mechanisms can help detect exploitation attempts. Organizations should also consider implementing database activity monitoring to detect anomalous SQL query patterns that may indicate exploitation attempts. Security teams should establish incident response procedures specifically addressing SQL injection vulnerabilities and ensure that all stakeholders understand the importance of prompt patch management. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of maintaining up-to-date software components and implementing defense-in-depth strategies to protect against common web application attacks.