CVE-2017-20278 in JoomRecipe
Summary
by MITRE • 06/19/2026
Joomla Component JoomRecipe 1.0.3 contains an SQL injection vulnerability that allows unauthenticated attackers to manipulate database queries by injecting SQL code through the category parameter. Attackers can send GET requests to the all-recipes endpoint with malicious SQL payloads in the category path segment to extract sensitive database information.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/19/2026
The Joomla Component JoomRecipe version 1.0.3 presents a critical SQL injection vulnerability that compromises the integrity of the underlying database system. This vulnerability exists within the component's handling of the category parameter in the all-recipes endpoint, where user input is directly incorporated into database queries without proper sanitization or parameterization. The flaw allows unauthenticated attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands by manipulating the category path segment through GET requests, effectively bypassing authentication mechanisms and gaining unauthorized access to sensitive data.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and improper query construction practices within the component's backend code. When the category parameter is processed, the application fails to employ prepared statements or proper escaping mechanisms, creating an exploitable entry point for malicious actors. The vulnerability manifests as a classic SQL injection flaw categorized under CWE-89, which represents the most common and dangerous form of database injection attacks. Attackers can leverage this weakness to perform unauthorized data retrieval, modification, or deletion operations on the database, potentially exposing confidential information including user credentials, personal data, and system configurations.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft, as it provides attackers with the capability to escalate privileges and potentially achieve full system compromise. The unauthenticated nature of the attack means that any user with access to the affected Joomla site can exploit this vulnerability without requiring prior authorization or credentials. This makes the attack surface particularly dangerous in environments where Joomla installations are publicly accessible and frequently targeted by automated scanning tools. The vulnerability also aligns with ATT&CK technique T1071.004, which covers application layer protocol manipulation, and T1190, which addresses exploitation of remote services through software vulnerabilities.
Security professionals should immediately implement mitigation strategies including input validation, parameterized queries, and web application firewalls to protect against exploitation attempts. The recommended approach involves sanitizing all user inputs, implementing proper escape sequences for database queries, and deploying comprehensive monitoring solutions to detect anomalous database access patterns. Additionally, administrators should consider applying the latest security patches provided by the component developers, as well as conducting thorough security assessments to identify similar vulnerabilities in other installed components and extensions. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of secure coding practices and regular security audits in preventing database compromise through injection attacks. Organizations should also establish incident response procedures to quickly address potential exploitation attempts and ensure comprehensive coverage of all application components.