CVE-2009-4703 in Ws Gallery
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in the Webesse Image Gallery (ws_gallery) extension 1.0.4 and earlier for TYPO3 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via unspecified vectors.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/02/2026
The CVE-2009-4703 vulnerability represents a critical SQL injection flaw within the Webesse Image Gallery extension for TYPO3 content management system. This vulnerability affects versions 1.0.4 and earlier, exposing web applications that utilize this extension to potential remote code execution attacks. The flaw resides in how the extension processes user input within SQL queries, creating an avenue for malicious actors to manipulate database operations through crafted input parameters.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization within the ws_gallery extension's database interaction mechanisms. When the extension processes user-supplied data in SQL queries, it fails to properly escape or parameterize input values, allowing attackers to inject malicious SQL code. This weakness enables remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands against the underlying database, potentially gaining unauthorized access to sensitive information, modifying database content, or even escalating privileges within the affected system. The unspecified vectors suggest that multiple entry points within the extension could be exploited, making the vulnerability particularly dangerous as attackers can identify various attack surfaces without specific knowledge of the exact implementation details.
The operational impact of CVE-2009-4703 extends beyond simple data theft, as successful exploitation can lead to complete system compromise. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to extract sensitive user credentials, manipulate content management systems, or establish persistent backdoors within the TYPO3 environment. The vulnerability's remote nature means that attackers do not require physical access to the system or knowledge of internal network structures to exploit the flaw, making it particularly attractive to threat actors. Organizations running affected TYPO3 installations face significant risk of data breaches, service disruption, and potential regulatory compliance violations, especially in environments where personal data or confidential business information is stored within the database.
Security professionals should implement immediate mitigation strategies including upgrading to the patched version of the Webesse Image Gallery extension, applying the latest TYPO3 security updates, and implementing proper input validation measures. Organizations should also consider network segmentation, database access controls, and monitoring for suspicious SQL query patterns. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-89, which specifically addresses SQL injection flaws, and maps to ATT&CK technique T1071.004 for application layer protocol manipulation. The incident underscores the importance of maintaining up-to-date content management systems and implementing robust security practices including regular vulnerability assessments, input sanitization, and database security hardening measures to prevent similar exploits from compromising web applications.