CVE-2017-20282 in jCart for OpenCart
Summary
by MITRE • 06/19/2026
Joomla! Component jCart for OpenCart 2.0 contains an SQL injection vulnerability that allows unauthenticated attackers to manipulate database queries by injecting SQL code through the product_id parameter. Attackers can send GET requests to index.php with the option=com_jcart&route=product/product parameters and malicious product_id values to extract sensitive database information.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/19/2026
The vulnerability in question affects the jCart component for OpenCart 2.0, representing a critical security flaw that undermines the integrity of Joomla! based e-commerce platforms. This SQL injection vulnerability exists within the product_id parameter handling mechanism, where the application fails to properly sanitize user input before incorporating it into database queries. The flaw enables unauthenticated attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands without requiring any valid credentials or privileges, making it particularly dangerous as it can be exploited by anyone who can access the vulnerable web application. The vulnerability manifests when attackers craft malicious GET requests targeting the specific URL pattern index.php?option=com_jcart&route=product/product, where they can inject specially crafted SQL payloads through the product_id parameter. This allows for complete database manipulation and unauthorized access to sensitive information stored within the application's backend systems.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper input validation and parameter handling within the jCart component's codebase. When the application processes the product_id parameter, it directly incorporates user-supplied values into SQL query construction without appropriate sanitization or parameterization techniques. This classic SQL injection pattern falls under the CWE-89 category, which specifically addresses improper neutralization of special elements used in SQL commands. The vulnerability enables attackers to perform various malicious activities including data extraction, data modification, and potentially complete database compromise. The attack vector is particularly effective because it operates at the database layer where attackers can leverage UNION-based SQL injection techniques to retrieve sensitive information such as user credentials, product catalogs, and system configuration details.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft, as it provides attackers with comprehensive access to the underlying database infrastructure. Successful exploitation can lead to complete system compromise, allowing attackers to escalate privileges, modify product listings, manipulate pricing information, and potentially gain access to customer data including personal information and payment details. The vulnerability affects all versions of OpenCart 2.0 that utilize the jCart component, creating widespread exposure across numerous e-commerce platforms. From an attacker perspective, this vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1071.004 for application layer protocol, as it exploits weaknesses in web application communication protocols. The lack of authentication requirements makes this attack particularly dangerous as it can be executed remotely without any prior system access, potentially allowing for automated exploitation across multiple targets.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should include immediate patching of the affected jCart component to implement proper input validation and parameterized queries. Organizations should implement web application firewalls to detect and block malicious SQL injection attempts targeting the specific URL patterns associated with the vulnerability. Input sanitization measures including proper escaping of special characters and validation of numeric parameters should be enforced to prevent injection attacks. Database access controls should be reviewed and restricted to minimize potential damage from successful exploitation attempts. Security monitoring should be enhanced to detect unusual database query patterns that may indicate SQL injection activity. Additionally, regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be conducted to identify similar issues within the broader application architecture. The implementation of proper error handling mechanisms can also help prevent information disclosure that might assist attackers in crafting more sophisticated injection payloads. Organizations should also consider implementing database query logging and monitoring to detect unauthorized access attempts and maintain audit trails for forensic analysis.