CVE-2010-3211 in Com Jefaqpro
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple SQL injection vulnerabilities in the JE FAQ Pro (com_jefaqpro) component 1.5.0 for Joomla! allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via category categorylist operations with (1) the catid parameter or (2) the catid parameter in a lists action.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/02/2025
The CVE-2010-3211 vulnerability represents a critical SQL injection flaw within the JE FAQ Pro component version 1.5.0 for Joomla websites that utilize this particular extension. The flaw exists in the component's input validation mechanisms, where user-supplied category identifiers are directly incorporated into database queries without proper sanitization or parameterization. This vulnerability falls under the CWE-89 category, which specifically addresses SQL injection weaknesses in software applications, making it a well-documented and dangerous class of vulnerability that has been consistently exploited by attackers over many years. The component's failure to properly validate or escape user input creates an exploitable pathway for malicious actors to manipulate database operations through crafted category identifiers.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands by manipulating the catid parameter in two distinct scenarios. When attackers submit malicious input through the catid parameter during category listing operations, the application processes these inputs directly within SQL query construction without appropriate filtering or escaping mechanisms. This vulnerability manifests in two attack vectors: the first involves manipulation of the catid parameter during standard category list operations, while the second targets the catid parameter within lists action operations. Both scenarios exploit the same underlying flaw in input handling, where the component fails to implement proper parameterized queries or input sanitization techniques. The attack requires no authentication and can be executed remotely, making it particularly dangerous as it allows unauthorized users to potentially extract, modify, or delete database contents. The vulnerability's exploitation aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190, which describes the use of SQL injection to manipulate database operations and extract sensitive information.
The operational impact of CVE-2010-3211 extends beyond simple data extraction to potentially enable complete database compromise and unauthorized administrative access. Attackers who successfully exploit this vulnerability can gain access to sensitive user information, including credentials stored in the database, content management data, and potentially other system information. The vulnerability's remote execution capability means that attackers can exploit it from anywhere on the internet without requiring physical access or local system privileges. This creates a significant risk for Joomla! websites that have not updated to patched versions of the JE FAQ Pro component, as the vulnerability has been widely known and documented since its discovery. The attack surface is particularly concerning for websites that store sensitive information in their databases, as the SQL injection could be leveraged to escalate privileges, modify website content, or even establish persistent access through database user account manipulation.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2010-3211 should prioritize immediate component updates to the latest secure versions that address the SQL injection vulnerabilities. System administrators should implement proper input validation and parameterized queries throughout the application codebase, ensuring that all user-supplied data is properly sanitized before being incorporated into database operations. The vulnerability's classification under CWE-89 emphasizes the importance of implementing proper database query construction practices, including the use of prepared statements and parameterized queries to prevent malicious input from being interpreted as executable SQL commands. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls to detect and block suspicious SQL injection patterns, though this should not replace proper code-level fixes. Additionally, regular security audits and vulnerability assessments should be conducted to identify similar flaws in other components or custom code. The remediation process should include comprehensive testing to ensure that the fixes do not break existing functionality while effectively addressing the SQL injection vulnerability. Security monitoring should be implemented to detect potential exploitation attempts, and access controls should be reviewed to minimize the potential impact of successful attacks. This vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of keeping content management systems and their extensions updated to protect against known exploits.