CVE-2018-7180 in Saxum Astro
Summary
by MITRE
SQL Injection exists in the Saxum Astro 4.0.14 component for Joomla! via the publicid parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/29/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-7180 represents a critical SQL injection flaw within the Saxum Astro 4.0.14 component for Joomla content management systems where the Saxum Astro component is installed, making it a significant concern for websites relying on this particular extension for their functionality.
The technical implementation of this SQL injection vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization within the publicid parameter processing logic. When user-supplied data is directly incorporated into database queries without proper escaping or parameterization, malicious actors can inject arbitrary SQL commands. This flaw falls under the Common Weakness Enumeration category CWE-89, which specifically addresses SQL injection vulnerabilities where untrusted data is used in database queries without adequate protection mechanisms. The vulnerability demonstrates a classic lack of proper input sanitization that enables attackers to manipulate the underlying database structure and potentially execute commands with elevated privileges.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft, as it can lead to complete system compromise and unauthorized access to sensitive user information. Attackers exploiting this vulnerability could extract database contents including user credentials, personal information, and other confidential data stored within the Joomla is widely used for various website types including corporate portals, e-commerce platforms, and content-rich sites where user data protection is paramount. This vulnerability could also serve as a stepping stone for further attacks within the network infrastructure, as compromised systems often provide access to additional resources and services.
Organizations utilizing the affected Saxum Astro component should immediately implement mitigation strategies to protect their systems from exploitation attempts. The primary recommendation involves applying the vendor-provided security patches and updates as soon as they become available, which typically include proper input validation and parameterized query implementations. Additionally, implementing web application firewalls and input filtering mechanisms can provide additional protection layers. According to the MITRE ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability would be categorized under the T1190 technique for exploitation of remote services, and organizations should consider implementing network monitoring and intrusion detection systems to identify potential exploitation attempts. Database access controls should be reviewed and restricted to minimize potential damage from successful attacks, while regular security audits should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other components and extensions within the Joomla! ecosystem.