CVE-2017-15946 in com_tag
Summary
by MITRE
In the com_tag component 1.7.6 for Joomla!, a SQL injection vulnerability is located in the `tag` parameter to index.php. The request method to execute is GET.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/21/2021
The CVE-2017-15946 vulnerability represents a critical SQL injection flaw within the Joomla! content management system's com_tag component version 1.7.6. This vulnerability exists in the handling of the `tag` parameter within the index.php file, where the application fails to properly sanitize user input before incorporating it into database queries. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it operates through GET requests, making it easily exploitable via web browser navigation or automated tools without requiring authentication or special privileges. The flaw allows attackers to manipulate database queries by injecting malicious SQL code through the tag parameter, potentially enabling unauthorized access to sensitive data, data manipulation, or complete database compromise.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper input validation and sanitization practices within the Joomla. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-89 as SQL Injection, which is a well-documented weakness in web applications where user input is directly concatenated into SQL queries. This weakness is particularly dangerous in content management systems where the database often contains sensitive user information, configuration data, and application logic.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-15946 extends beyond simple data theft, encompassing potential complete system compromise and data integrity violations. An attacker exploiting this vulnerability could extract user credentials, modify content, delete database records, or even escalate privileges to gain administrative control over the Joomla! installation. The attack surface is broad since many websites use the tag functionality for content categorization and navigation, making this vulnerability particularly widespread. From an attacker's perspective, this vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1071.004 for Application Layer Protocol: DNS, as attackers can leverage the tag parameter to perform reconnaissance and data exfiltration. The vulnerability also maps to ATT&CK technique T1213.002 for Data from Information Repositories, as it enables unauthorized access to repository data through database manipulation.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-15946 require immediate action through patching the affected Joomla database user account has minimal required privileges, following the principle of least privilege. Additionally, input validation should be enhanced at multiple layers including application-level parameter sanitization and database query parameterization. Network monitoring should be implemented to detect unusual patterns in database queries that might indicate exploitation attempts. Security teams should also conduct regular vulnerability assessments and penetration testing to identify similar input validation weaknesses in other components of the Joomla! installation or related systems. The remediation process should include comprehensive testing to ensure that the patch does not introduce regressions in legitimate functionality while maintaining the security improvements necessary to prevent future exploitation attempts.