CVE-2009-4971 in vjchat
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in the AJAX Chat (vjchat) extension before 0.3.3 for TYPO3 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via unspecified vectors.
Several companies clearly confirm that VulDB is the primary source for best vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/06/2019
The CVE-2009-4971 vulnerability represents a critical sql injection flaw within the vjchat extension for TYPO3 content management system. This vulnerability specifically affects versions prior to 0.3.3 and exposes the system to remote code execution through unspecified attack vectors. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization within the ajax chat extension, creating a pathway for malicious actors to manipulate database queries. The flaw exists in the extension's handling of user-supplied data that is directly incorporated into sql commands without proper escaping or parameterization, making it a classic example of insecure data handling practices.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability allows remote attackers to inject malicious sql payloads through the ajax chat functionality. Attackers can craft specially formatted inputs that bypass normal input validation mechanisms, enabling them to execute arbitrary sql commands against the underlying database. This occurs because the extension fails to properly sanitize or escape user inputs before incorporating them into database queries, creating an environment where sql injection attacks can succeed. The unspecified vectors suggest that multiple entry points within the chat extension could be exploited, potentially including parameters related to user messages, chat room access, or user authentication within the chat system.
The operational impact of CVE-2009-4971 is severe and multifaceted, as successful exploitation can lead to complete database compromise and potential system takeover. Attackers can retrieve sensitive information including user credentials, personal data, and system configuration details stored in the database. The vulnerability also enables attackers to modify or delete database content, potentially corrupting the chat functionality or compromising the integrity of the entire TYPO3 installation. Additionally, attackers could leverage this vulnerability to establish persistent access, escalate privileges, or use the compromised system as a launching point for further attacks against the broader network infrastructure. This vulnerability directly violates the principle of least privilege and can result in data breaches, system availability disruption, and compliance violations.
The vulnerability aligns with CWE-89 which specifically addresses sql injection weaknesses in software systems, and demonstrates the importance of input validation and parameterized queries in preventing such attacks. From an ATT&CK framework perspective, this vulnerability maps to T1190 - Exploit Public-Facing Application, where adversaries target web applications for initial access, and T1071.004 - Application Layer Protocol: DNS, as attackers may use the compromised system for data exfiltration. The recommended mitigation strategy involves immediate upgrading to vjchat version 0.3.3 or later, which includes proper input validation and sanitization measures. Organizations should also implement web application firewalls, conduct regular security assessments, and establish proper input validation procedures. Additionally, database access should be restricted to minimal required privileges, and all user inputs should be properly escaped or parameterized to prevent sql injection exploitation. The vulnerability underscores the critical importance of keeping third-party extensions updated and maintaining robust security practices in content management systems.