CVE-2018-10063 in Convert Forms Extension
Summary
by MITRE
The Convert Forms extension before 2.0.4 for Joomla! is vulnerable to Remote Command Execution using CSV Injection that is mishandled when exporting a Leads file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/05/2025
The Convert Forms extension for Joomla! versions prior to 2.0.4 contains a critical remote command execution vulnerability that stems from improper handling of CSV injection during lead file exports. This vulnerability specifically affects the export functionality where user-supplied data is not adequately sanitized before being processed into CSV format, creating a pathway for malicious actors to inject and execute arbitrary commands on the affected system. The flaw represents a significant security weakness in the extension's data processing pipeline, particularly within the leads export mechanism that handles sensitive customer information.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability exploits the lack of proper input validation and sanitization within the CSV export functionality. When users export leads data, the extension processes the information without sufficient filtering of special characters that could be interpreted as command sequences by the underlying operating system. This allows attackers to craft malicious input containing command injection payloads that get executed when the CSV file is generated and processed. The vulnerability is classified as a command injection flaw that aligns with CWE-77 and CWE-94, representing both improper neutralization of special elements used in a command and code injection vulnerabilities. The attack vector leverages the CSV export feature to bypass normal security controls and execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the web application.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data compromise, as it provides attackers with full command execution capabilities on the vulnerable system. Successful exploitation could enable attackers to install malware, steal sensitive data, modify system configurations, or establish persistent access through backdoor creation. The vulnerability affects the integrity and confidentiality of all lead data stored within the Joomla! installation, potentially exposing personal identifiable information, business contact details, and other sensitive customer data. Organizations using affected versions face significant risk of data breaches, regulatory compliance violations, and potential system compromise that could lead to broader network infiltration. The vulnerability also creates opportunities for attackers to use the compromised system as a pivot point for attacking other systems within the network infrastructure.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate action to upgrade the Convert Forms extension to version 2.0.4 or later, which includes proper input sanitization and validation measures. System administrators should also implement network segmentation and access controls to limit exposure, while monitoring for suspicious export activities and unusual command execution patterns. The remediation process should include comprehensive security testing of the export functionality and implementation of proper data sanitization techniques that prevent special character interpretation during CSV generation. Additionally, organizations should conduct regular security assessments of third-party extensions and maintain up-to-date vulnerability management processes to prevent similar issues. This vulnerability demonstrates the importance of secure coding practices and proper input validation in web applications, particularly when handling user-generated content in export and data processing functions. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this as a command injection technique under the execution phase, while also representing a privilege escalation opportunity that could lead to more sophisticated attack vectors.