CVE-2018-6396 in Google Map Landkarten
Summary
by MITRE
SQL Injection exists in the Google Map Landkarten through 4.2.3 component for Joomla! via the cid or id parameter in a layout=form_markers action, or the map parameter in a layout=default action.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/14/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-6396 represents a critical SQL injection flaw within the Google Map Landkarten component for Joomla! versions up to 4.2.3. This security weakness arises from inadequate input validation and sanitization mechanisms that fail to properly handle user-supplied data in specific parameter fields. The vulnerability specifically affects two distinct attack vectors within the component's functionality, creating multiple pathways for malicious actors to exploit the system's database layer through crafted SQL commands.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs when the component processes user input through the cid or id parameters during a layout=form_markers action, or through the map parameter during a layout=default action. These parameters are directly incorporated into SQL queries without proper sanitization or parameterization, allowing attackers to inject malicious SQL code that can manipulate the database structure or extract sensitive information. The flaw stems from the component's failure to implement proper input validation mechanisms, which is classified under CWE-89 as SQL injection, a well-documented weakness that has been consistently ranked among the top cybersecurity threats since the OWASP Top Ten project began tracking such vulnerabilities.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft, as successful exploitation could enable attackers to gain unauthorized access to sensitive information stored within the Joomla component means that numerous websites could be at risk, particularly those that rely on Google Map Landkarten for location-based services or mapping functionality. The attack surface is further expanded by the fact that these parameters are typically exposed through standard web forms or URL parameters, making exploitation relatively straightforward for threat actors with basic technical knowledge.
From a threat modeling perspective, this vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190 for exploiting vulnerabilities in web applications, and T1071.004 for application layer protocol usage. The component's exposure through standard web interfaces creates multiple attack vectors that can be leveraged through automated scanning tools or manual exploitation attempts. Organizations utilizing affected Joomla! versions should immediately implement mitigations including input validation, parameterized queries, and access controls to prevent unauthorized database access. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper input sanitization and the potential consequences of failing to implement secure coding practices in web application development, particularly when handling user-supplied data in database operations.
The remediation strategy should prioritize immediate patching of the affected component to version 4.2.4 or later, which contains the necessary security fixes. Additionally, administrators should implement proper input validation routines that sanitize all user-supplied parameters before processing, and ensure that database connections use parameterized queries rather than direct string concatenation. Network-based mitigations such as web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems can provide additional layers of protection, though these should not be considered substitutes for proper code-level fixes. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be conducted to identify similar weaknesses in other components or third-party extensions that may present comparable risks to the organization's overall security posture.