CVE-2018-6004 in File Download Tracker
Summary
by MITRE
SQL Injection exists in the File Download Tracker 3.0 component for Joomla! via the dynfield[phone] or sess parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/09/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-6004 represents a critical sql injection flaw within the File Download Tracker 3.0 component for Joomla! platforms. This security weakness specifically affects the dynamic field handling mechanism where user-supplied input is improperly sanitized before being incorporated into database queries. The vulnerability manifests through two primary parameter vectors: dynfield[phone] and sess, both of which accept unvalidated user input that can be manipulated to execute arbitrary sql commands against the underlying database system.
From a technical perspective, this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and parameter binding practices within the component's codebase. The File Download Tracker 3.0 component fails to properly escape or parameterize user-supplied data before incorporating it into sql query strings, creating an environment where malicious actors can inject sql payloads through the affected parameters. This flaw directly maps to CWE-89 which categorizes sql injection vulnerabilities as a result of insufficient input validation and improper query construction. The vulnerability's exploitation requires minimal technical expertise and can be executed through standard web application penetration testing methodologies, making it particularly dangerous in production environments.
The operational impact of CVE-2018-6004 extends beyond simple data theft, as successful exploitation can lead to complete database compromise including data manipulation, unauthorized access to sensitive information, and potential system escalation. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to extract confidential user data, modify database records, or even escalate privileges within the application environment. The attack surface is further expanded due to the widespread adoption of Joomla! platforms, making this vulnerability particularly attractive to threat actors seeking to compromise multiple systems simultaneously. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1071.004 which describes the use of application layer protocols for data exfiltration and command execution.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2018-6004 require immediate patching of the File Download Tracker 3.0 component to the latest available version that addresses the sql injection vulnerability. Organizations should implement proper input validation mechanisms that sanitize all user-supplied data before processing, employ parameterized queries or prepared statements to prevent sql injection attacks, and conduct regular security assessments of third-party components. Network segmentation and web application firewalls can provide additional layers of protection while patches are being deployed. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of maintaining up-to-date security practices and adhering to secure coding standards as outlined in OWASP Top Ten 2017 and NIST cybersecurity guidelines for preventing sql injection attacks. Regular monitoring of security advisories and prompt application of security patches remains critical for maintaining system integrity and preventing exploitation of similar vulnerabilities in other components.