CVE-2010-5003 in Com Autartimonial
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in the AutarTimonial (com_autartimonial) component 1.0.8 for Joomla! allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the limit parameter in an autartimonial action to index.php. NOTE: some of these details are obtained from third party information.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/06/2025
The CVE-2010-5003 vulnerability represents a critical sql injection flaw within the AutarTimonial component version 1.0.8 for Joomla! platforms. This vulnerability specifically targets the component's handling of user input through the limit parameter in the autartimonial action within the index.php file. The flaw enables remote attackers to inject malicious sql commands directly into the database query execution flow without requiring authentication or privileged access. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization within the component's parameter handling mechanism, allowing attackers to manipulate the sql query structure through crafted input values.
This sql injection vulnerability falls under the common weakness enumeration CWE-89 which specifically addresses improper neutralization of special elements used in sql commands. The attack vector operates through the web application's interface where the limit parameter is processed without proper sanitization, creating an opportunity for attackers to inject malicious sql payloads. The vulnerability demonstrates a classic sql injection pattern where user-controllable parameters are directly concatenated into sql queries without proper escaping or parameterization techniques. The component's failure to implement proper input filtering mechanisms means that any value passed through the limit parameter can potentially alter the intended sql query execution path.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe as it provides attackers with the ability to execute arbitrary sql commands on the underlying database system. Successful exploitation could enable attackers to retrieve sensitive data including user credentials, personal information, and administrative details stored within the database. The vulnerability also permits attackers to modify or delete database records, potentially compromising the integrity and availability of the entire Joomla! installation. Additionally, attackers could leverage this vulnerability to escalate privileges within the database, gain persistent access to the system, or even use the compromised database as a pivot point for further attacks within the network infrastructure. The remote nature of the attack means that exploitation can occur from any location without requiring physical access to the system.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2010-5003 should focus on immediate remediation through component updates and input validation enforcement. The primary solution involves upgrading to a patched version of the AutarTimonial component that implements proper parameter sanitization and input validation techniques. Organizations should implement proper sql query parameterization using prepared statements or stored procedures to prevent direct concatenation of user input into sql queries. Input validation should include strict filtering of special characters and sql keywords within the limit parameter, while output encoding should be implemented to prevent malicious payloads from being executed. Network-level protections such as web application firewalls can provide additional defense-in-depth measures, though these should not replace proper code-level fixes. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of regular security assessments and component audits to identify and remediate similar flaws before they can be exploited by malicious actors, aligning with security best practices outlined in the owasp top ten and nist cybersecurity framework guidelines.