CVE-2011-4570 in Com Timereturns
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in the Time Returns (com_timereturns) component 2.0 and possibly earlier versions for Joomla! allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the id parameter in a timereturns action to index.php.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/23/2024
The CVE-2011-4570 vulnerability represents a critical sql injection flaw within the Time Returns component for Joomla! version 2.0 and potentially earlier releases. This vulnerability exists in the component's handling of user input through the id parameter within the timereturns action of the index.php file. The flaw enables remote attackers to manipulate the underlying database queries by injecting malicious sql code through the vulnerable parameter. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization within the component's code implementation, allowing attackers to bypass normal security controls and directly interact with the database layer.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker submits a malicious value through the id parameter in the timereturns action URL. The component fails to properly escape or validate this input before incorporating it into sql queries, creating an environment where attacker-controlled data can be interpreted as sql syntax rather than literal data. This allows for arbitrary sql command execution, potentially enabling attackers to extract sensitive data, modify database records, or even gain unauthorized access to the underlying database system. The vulnerability specifically affects the com_timereturns component, which is part of Joomla!'s content management framework and is susceptible to exploitation without authentication requirements.
The operational impact of CVE-2011-4570 extends beyond simple data theft to encompass complete system compromise and unauthorized access to sensitive information. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to perform data manipulation operations including but not limited to user credential extraction, database schema enumeration, and potential privilege escalation within the database environment. The vulnerability's remote exploitability means that attackers do not require physical access to the system or knowledge of valid credentials to exploit the flaw. This makes the vulnerability particularly dangerous as it can be exploited from any location with internet connectivity, potentially affecting multiple systems simultaneously. The vulnerability affects Joomla! installations running version 2.0 and potentially earlier versions, creating widespread exposure across numerous web applications that rely on this content management system.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2011-4570 should prioritize immediate patching of affected Joomla installations and ensure that all third-party extensions are properly updated and maintained to prevent similar security incidents.