CVE-2013-4634 in rzautocomplete
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in the jQuery autocomplete for indexed_search (rzautocomplete) extension before 0.0.9 for TYPO3 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via unspecified vectors.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/27/2019
The CVE-2013-4634 vulnerability represents a critical SQL injection flaw within the rzautocomplete extension for TYPO3, specifically affecting versions prior to 0.0.9. This vulnerability resides within the jQuery autocomplete functionality designed for the indexed_search module, creating a pathway for remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands against the underlying database system. The issue stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization within the extension's search parameter handling mechanisms, allowing malicious actors to manipulate database queries through crafted input sequences.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through unspecified vectors within the autocomplete functionality, which typically processes user input to provide search suggestions. When users enter search terms into the indexed_search interface, the rzautocomplete extension fails to properly escape or validate these inputs before incorporating them into SQL queries. This oversight enables attackers to inject malicious SQL code that gets executed within the database context, potentially leading to unauthorized data access, modification, or deletion. The vulnerability's classification as a SQL injection flaw aligns with CWE-89, which specifically addresses improper neutralization of special elements used in SQL commands.
The operational impact of CVE-2013-4634 extends beyond simple data compromise, as successful exploitation could enable attackers to escalate privileges within the TYPO3 system. Since TYPO3 is a widely-used content management system, this vulnerability affects numerous websites and organizations that rely on its search functionality. Attackers could leverage the SQL injection to extract sensitive information including user credentials, database schemas, and potentially gain access to administrative interfaces. The remote nature of the attack means that no local system access is required, making the vulnerability particularly dangerous for publicly accessible TYPO3 installations.
Security practitioners should consider this vulnerability in the context of the MITRE ATT&CK framework, specifically under the execution and privilege escalation tactics where SQL injection attacks are commonly employed to gain unauthorized system access. Organizations using TYPO3 systems should immediately implement the patch released in version 0.0.9 of the rzautocomplete extension, which addresses the input validation issues by properly sanitizing user inputs before database query construction. Additionally, implementing web application firewalls, database query parameterization, and regular security audits can provide layered defense against similar vulnerabilities. The vulnerability highlights the importance of input validation and proper database interaction practices, particularly in web applications that handle user-supplied data through search and autocomplete features.