CVE-2015-2803 in Akronymmanager Extension
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in mod1/index.php in the Akronymmanager (sb_akronymmanager) extension before 7.0.0 for TYPO3 allows remote authenticated users with permission to maintain acronyms to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the id parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/03/2025
The CVE-2015-2803 vulnerability represents a critical SQL injection flaw within the Akronymmanager extension for TYPO3, specifically affecting versions prior to 7.0.0. This vulnerability exists in the mod1/index.php file and demonstrates a classic improper input validation issue that has significant implications for database security. The flaw is particularly concerning because it requires only authenticated access with specific permissions to exploit, making it a serious concern for organizations that rely on TYPO3 content management systems. The vulnerability allows attackers to manipulate database queries through the id parameter, potentially leading to unauthorized data access, modification, or deletion. This type of vulnerability falls under the CWE-89 category of SQL Injection, which is consistently ranked among the top ten web application security risks by the OWASP Top Ten project. The attack vector leverages the extension's failure to properly sanitize user input before incorporating it into database queries, creating an environment where malicious SQL commands can be executed with the privileges of the authenticated user.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data compromise, as it can enable attackers to escalate their privileges within the TYPO3 system and potentially gain access to sensitive organizational data. The authenticated nature of the exploit means that an attacker must first obtain valid credentials, but once achieved, they can leverage this vulnerability to execute arbitrary SQL commands that may include data extraction, database modification, or even complete system compromise. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1078.004 which covers Valid Accounts - Cloud Accounts, as it exploits legitimate user permissions to escalate privileges and gain unauthorized database access. The implications are particularly severe for organizations using TYPO3 for content management, as the acronym manager extension is often used to store and manage organizational terminology, which may include sensitive business information, employee data, or proprietary content. The vulnerability creates a pathway for attackers to potentially access the entire database backend, especially if the database user account has elevated privileges.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2015-2803 must focus on immediate patching of the affected TYPO3 extension to version 7.0.0 or later, where the SQL injection vulnerability has been resolved. Organizations should implement comprehensive input validation and parameterized queries throughout their TYPO3 installations to prevent similar vulnerabilities from emerging in other components. Security monitoring should include detection of unusual database access patterns and query execution that may indicate exploitation attempts. Network segmentation and privilege separation can limit the potential impact if the vulnerability is exploited, ensuring that database accounts have minimal required permissions. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning of web applications, as the issue was present in versions that were widely deployed. Organizations should consider implementing web application firewalls and database activity monitoring solutions to detect and prevent exploitation attempts. Additionally, regular security training for administrators and developers can help prevent similar issues by promoting secure coding practices and proper input sanitization techniques that align with industry standards such as those recommended by the Open Web Application Security Project and the Center for Internet Security.