CVE-2010-4975 in Com Socialads
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in the Techjoomla SocialAds For JomSocial (com_socialads) component for Joomla! allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the ads description field in a showad action to index.php.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/01/2025
The CVE-2010-4975 vulnerability represents a critical sql injection flaw within the Techjoomla SocialAds For JomSocial component for Joomla! platforms. This vulnerability specifically targets the ads description field within the showad action of the index.php script, creating a pathway for remote attackers to manipulate the underlying database through crafted malicious input. The vulnerability exists due to inadequate input validation and sanitization mechanisms within the component's code, allowing attackers to inject arbitrary sql commands that bypass normal security controls. The flaw is particularly dangerous because it operates through a commonly used functionality field, making it accessible to attackers without requiring elevated privileges or specialized knowledge of the system's internal workings.
This vulnerability directly maps to CWE-89, which categorizes sql injection as a fundamental weakness in application security where untrusted data is incorporated into sql queries without proper sanitization or parameterization. The attack vector exploits the component's failure to properly escape or validate user input from the ads description field, enabling an attacker to manipulate the sql execution context. The vulnerability operates at the application layer and can be classified under ATT&CK technique T1071.004 for application layer protocol manipulation, specifically targeting web application vulnerabilities. The security implications extend beyond simple data theft, as successful exploitation could lead to complete database compromise, unauthorized access to user accounts, and potential system takeover through database-level privilege escalation.
The operational impact of CVE-2010-4975 is severe and multifaceted, affecting organizations using vulnerable Joomla! installations with the specific com_socialads component. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to extract sensitive information including user credentials, personal data, and business-critical information stored in the database. The vulnerability also enables attackers to modify or delete data, potentially corrupting the entire advertising system and compromising the integrity of the platform. Additionally, the exploitation could lead to persistent backdoor access through database-level modifications, allowing attackers to maintain long-term presence on the compromised system. Organizations may face regulatory compliance violations, reputational damage, and potential legal consequences due to data breaches resulting from this vulnerability.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2010-4975 require immediate action to address the underlying sql injection vulnerability. The primary recommendation involves applying the vendor-supplied patch or upgrade to the Techjoomla SocialAds component to ensure proper input validation and sanitization. Organizations should implement proper parameterized queries and prepared statements throughout the application code to prevent sql injection attacks. Input validation should be strengthened to reject or escape special characters that could be used in sql injection attempts. Network-level protections such as web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems can provide additional layers of defense. Regular security audits and code reviews should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other components. Access controls should be implemented to limit database access privileges, and database logging should be enabled to monitor for suspicious sql activities. The vulnerability also underscores the importance of keeping all third-party components updated and following secure coding practices that prevent sql injection through proper input handling and output encoding mechanisms.