CVE-2018-5974 in SimpleCalendar
Summary
by MITRE
SQL Injection exists in the SimpleCalendar 3.1.9 component for Joomla! via the catid array parameter.
If you want to get the best quality for vulnerability data then you always have to consider VulDB.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/29/2025
The vulnerability CVE-2018-5974 represents a critical sql injection flaw within the SimpleCalendar 3.1.9 component for Joomla ecosystems for event management and calendar functionality, making this vulnerability particularly dangerous as it affects numerous websites that rely on this popular content management system. The flaw stems from improper input validation where user-supplied array parameters are directly incorporated into sql queries without adequate escaping or parameterization mechanisms, allowing attackers to manipulate the intended database operations.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker submits a malicious catid array parameter that contains sql payload constructs designed to bypass normal input filters and execute unauthorized database operations. This type of vulnerability falls under the CWE-89 classification as a direct sql injection attack vector, where user-controllable data is concatenated into sql commands without proper sanitization. The attack surface is expanded through the array parameter handling which allows for complex injection payloads that can potentially bypass basic security measures such as simple input filtering or basic sql escaping routines. When the vulnerable component processes the catid array, it directly incorporates these values into database queries without proper parameter binding or input validation, creating a path for attackers to extract sensitive information, modify database records, or even gain administrative access to the underlying database system.
The operational impact of CVE-2018-5974 extends far beyond simple data theft, as successful exploitation can lead to complete compromise of the affected Joomla! installations and their associated databases. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to extract confidential user information, including login credentials and personal data stored within the calendar component's database tables. The vulnerability also enables attackers to modify or delete calendar events, potentially disrupting business operations or spreading malicious content through the calendar system. Furthermore, the compromised system may serve as a stepping stone for lateral movement within the organization's network infrastructure, particularly when the same database credentials are shared across multiple applications. The attack vector aligns with ATT&CK technique T1071.004 for application layer protocol usage and T1190 for exploit for execution, representing a common pathway for attackers to establish persistent access and escalate privileges within target environments.
Organizations affected by this vulnerability should immediately implement multiple layers of mitigation strategies to protect their Joomla platform, as this vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper input validation across all user-controllable parameters within web applications.