CVE-2017-17875 in JEXTN FAQ Pro Extension
Summary
by MITRE
The JEXTN FAQ Pro extension 4.0.0 for Joomla! has SQL Injection via the id parameter in a view=category action.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/07/2025
The CVE-2017-17875 vulnerability represents a critical SQL injection flaw within the JEXTN FAQ Pro extension version 4.0.0 for Joomla! platforms. This vulnerability specifically manifests when processing user input through the id parameter within the view=category action, creating a pathway for malicious actors to execute unauthorized database operations. The flaw exists due to insufficient input validation and improper parameter handling within the extension's codebase, allowing attackers to manipulate SQL query structures through crafted malicious input.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the extension's failure to properly sanitize or escape user-supplied data before incorporating it into database queries. When a user submits a request containing a malicious id parameter within the category view context, the extension processes this input directly without adequate filtering mechanisms. This lack of input sanitization creates an environment where attackers can inject malicious SQL commands that execute with the privileges of the web application's database user. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-89, which specifically addresses SQL injection weaknesses in software applications.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability poses significant risks to Joomla is widely deployed across various organizations and websites, the potential impact of this vulnerability extends to numerous systems that may be running outdated extension versions.
The exploitation of CVE-2017-17875 aligns with ATT&CK technique T1213, which involves data from information repositories, and T1071.004, which covers application layer protocol manipulation. Security professionals should consider this vulnerability as part of broader attack chains where initial access leads to database compromise. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper input validation and parameterized queries in preventing injection attacks. Organizations should implement comprehensive security measures including regular patch management, input validation frameworks, and database access controls to mitigate the risk of such attacks.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability include immediate patching of the JEXTN FAQ Pro extension to version 4.0.1 or later, which addresses the SQL injection flaw through proper input sanitization and parameter handling. Additionally, implementing web application firewalls with SQL injection detection capabilities can provide an additional layer of protection. Database administrators should also enforce principle of least privilege for database accounts used by web applications, limiting potential damage from successful exploitation attempts. Regular security audits and code reviews should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other components of the Joomla! platform or third-party extensions.