CVE-2010-4166 in Joomla
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple SQL injection vulnerabilities in Joomla! 1.5.x before 1.5.22 allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via (1) the filter_order parameter in a com_weblinks category action to index.php, (2) the filter_order_Dir parameter in a com_weblinks category action to index.php, or (3) the filter_order_Dir parameter in a com_messages action to administrator/index.php.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/21/2019
The vulnerability CVE-2010-4166 represents a critical SQL injection flaw affecting Joomla! content management systems version 1.5.x prior to 1.5.22. This vulnerability resides within the core application logic that processes user input through specific parameter handling mechanisms in component controllers. The flaw allows remote attackers to inject malicious SQL commands directly into the database query execution flow, potentially enabling complete database compromise and unauthorized access to sensitive information. The vulnerability specifically targets the filter_order and filter_order_Dir parameters used in the com_weblinks and com_messages components, making it particularly dangerous as it affects both frontend and backend administrative interfaces.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and sanitization within the Joomla! framework's parameter processing functions. When users submit requests containing maliciously crafted filter_order or filter_order_Dir parameters, the application fails to properly escape or validate these inputs before incorporating them into SQL queries. This creates an exploitable condition where attackers can manipulate database queries by injecting SQL syntax through the parameter values. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-89 as SQL injection, which is a well-documented weakness in software applications that fail to properly validate or escape user-supplied data before using it in database operations.
The operational impact of CVE-2010-4166 extends beyond simple data theft to encompass complete system compromise and potential lateral movement within network environments. Attackers exploiting this vulnerability can execute arbitrary database commands including SELECT, INSERT, UPDATE, and DELETE operations, potentially leading to data manipulation, unauthorized user creation, or complete database destruction. The vulnerability affects both the public frontend of Joomla! installations and the administrative backend, making it particularly dangerous for system administrators who may inadvertently access compromised pages. This dual exposure increases the attack surface significantly, as attackers can exploit the vulnerability without requiring authentication for the frontend component.
Security professionals should implement immediate mitigations including updating to Joomla installations to identify any custom components or modifications that may be vulnerable to similar injection attacks, as this vulnerability could potentially be leveraged as a stepping stone for further exploitation within compromised environments.