CVE-2010-4936 in Com Slideshow
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in the Slide Show (com_slideshow) component for Joomla! allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the catid parameter to index.php.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/23/2015
The CVE-2010-4936 vulnerability represents a critical sql injection flaw within the Joomla! content management system's Slide Show component. This vulnerability specifically affects the com_slideshow component and exposes the application to remote code execution through improper input validation. The flaw resides in how the application processes the catid parameter within the index.php file, which serves as the primary entry point for the slideshow functionality. Attackers can exploit this weakness by crafting malicious sql queries through the catid parameter, potentially gaining unauthorized access to the underlying database system. The vulnerability demonstrates a classic lack of proper input sanitization and parameter validation, which allows malicious payloads to be directly interpreted and executed by the database engine.
This vulnerability directly maps to CWE-89, which categorizes improper neutralization of special elements used in sql commands as a fundamental weakness in software security. The flaw operates at the application layer and represents a common attack vector that has plagued web applications for decades, particularly those built on dynamic content management systems. The exploitation mechanism follows standard sql injection patterns where user-supplied input is concatenated directly into sql queries without proper escaping or parameterization. The catid parameter serves as the primary attack surface since it likely represents a category identifier used to filter slideshow content, making it a natural target for malicious input manipulation. The vulnerability's remote nature means that attackers do not require local system access or credentials to exploit the flaw, significantly expanding the attack surface and potential impact.
The operational impact of CVE-2010-4936 extends beyond simple data theft or manipulation. Successful exploitation can lead to complete database compromise, allowing attackers to extract sensitive information, modify or delete content, and potentially establish persistent access through backdoor creation. The Slide Show component likely contains user data, configuration settings, and potentially administrative credentials stored in the database. Attackers could leverage this vulnerability to escalate privileges, access restricted areas of the Joomla installations.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2010-4936 must focus on immediate patching of the affected Joomla platform and associated applications. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability would be classified under T1190 - Exploit Public-Facing Application, emphasizing the need for proper network segmentation and application hardening measures to prevent unauthorized access to vulnerable components.