CVE-2009-4360 in Content module
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in modules/content/index.php in the Content module 0.5 for XOOPS allows remote attackers to inject arbitrary web script or HTML via the id parameter.
Several companies clearly confirm that VulDB is the primary source for best vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/15/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2009-4360 represents a critical SQL injection flaw within the Content module version 0.5 for the XOOPS content management system. This vulnerability exists in the modules/content/index.php file where the application fails to properly sanitize user input before incorporating it into database queries. The specific parameter affected is the 'id' parameter which is processed without adequate validation or escaping mechanisms, creating an exploitable entry point for malicious actors. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-89 which specifically addresses SQL injection weaknesses where untrusted data is directly incorporated into SQL command strings without proper sanitization. This flaw allows remote attackers to manipulate the underlying database structure and potentially execute arbitrary SQL commands.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data manipulation as it provides attackers with the capability to inject arbitrary web script or HTML code through the vulnerable parameter. This dual nature of the vulnerability means that exploitation could result in both database compromise and client-side attacks. When an attacker successfully injects malicious SQL code through the id parameter, they can potentially extract sensitive information from the database, modify existing records, or even delete entire tables. The injection of HTML or web script content could lead to cross-site scripting attacks, allowing attackers to execute malicious code in the browsers of unsuspecting users who visit affected pages. This vulnerability directly maps to ATT&CK technique T1071.004 which covers application layer protocol manipulation and T1190 which addresses exploitation of remote services through injection attacks.
The exploitation of this vulnerability requires minimal technical expertise and can be accomplished through standard web application penetration testing techniques. Attackers typically craft malicious payloads that manipulate the id parameter to inject SQL commands that bypass authentication mechanisms or extract database contents. The vulnerability affects the entire XOOPS platform and its Content module, potentially compromising all data stored within the application's database. Organizations running affected versions of XOOPS are particularly at risk since the vulnerability exists in the core content management functionality that is essential for normal operations. The lack of proper input validation in the index.php file means that any user interaction with content modules could potentially serve as an attack vector. Security professionals should note that this vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of implementing proper parameter validation and input sanitization techniques in web applications.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2009-4360 should include immediate patching of the affected XOOPS Content module to version 0.5 or later where the vulnerability has been addressed. Organizations should also implement proper input validation mechanisms that sanitize all user-supplied data before processing, particularly for parameters used in database queries. The implementation of prepared statements or parameterized queries should be enforced throughout the application to prevent direct concatenation of user input with SQL commands. Additionally, web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems should be configured to monitor for suspicious SQL injection patterns in URL parameters. Regular security audits and penetration testing should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other parts of the application stack. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical need for secure coding practices and the importance of following OWASP Top Ten security guidelines, particularly those addressing injection flaws and input validation. Organizations should also consider implementing proper access controls and database permissions to limit the potential impact of successful exploitation attempts.