Source: cve@mitre.org
SQL injection vulnerability in the submitSurvey function in controller.php in JQuarks4s (com_jquarks4s) component 1.0.0 for Joomla!, when magic_quotes_gpc is disabled, allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the q parameter in a submitSurvey action to index.php.
Joomla! websites using the vulnerable JQuarks4s component are susceptible to a critical SQL injection vulnerability, allowing attackers to gain unauthorized access to the underlying database. This can lead to data breaches, website defacement, and potential server compromise, impacting confidentiality, integrity, and availability. Successful exploitation requires magic_quotes_gpc to be disabled, a common configuration in older PHP environments.
Step 1: Payload Delivery: The attacker crafts a malicious SQL injection payload and includes it within the q parameter of a POST request to index.php. The request targets the submitSurvey action of the JQuarks4s component.
Step 2: Request Processing: The Joomla! application receives the HTTP POST request and passes the parameters to the submitSurvey function in controller.php.
Step 3: Vulnerable Code Execution: The submitSurvey function constructs an SQL query using the value of the q parameter without proper sanitization. Because magic_quotes_gpc is disabled, the attacker's injected SQL code is directly incorporated into the query.
Step 4: SQL Query Execution: The crafted SQL query, now containing the attacker's payload, is executed against the database.
Step 5: Database Manipulation: The attacker's SQL payload executes, allowing them to perform actions such as retrieving sensitive data (e.g., usernames, passwords), modifying data, or potentially gaining control of the database server.
The vulnerability stems from a lack of proper input validation and sanitization within the submitSurvey function of the controller.php file in the JQuarks4s component. Specifically, the q parameter, which is used to construct SQL queries, is directly incorporated into the query without any filtering or escaping. When magic_quotes_gpc is disabled, the system does not automatically escape quotes, allowing attackers to inject malicious SQL code. The root cause is a missing check or sanitization of user-supplied input before it is used in a database query, leading to a classic SQL injection vulnerability. This allows an attacker to manipulate the database query and execute arbitrary SQL commands.
While no specific APT groups are directly linked to this vulnerability, it is a common attack vector used by various threat actors. The vulnerability's ease of exploitation makes it attractive for opportunistic attacks and automated exploitation attempts. This vulnerability is not listed on the CISA KEV catalog.
Web application firewall (WAF) rules that detect SQL injection attempts, specifically those targeting the q parameter.
Intrusion Detection System (IDS) signatures that identify malicious SQL syntax in HTTP POST requests.
Reviewing web server access logs for suspicious POST requests to index.php with the option=com_jquarks4s and task=submitSurvey parameters, and unusual values in the q parameter.
Database activity monitoring to detect unusual SQL queries or unauthorized access attempts.
File integrity monitoring to detect changes to the controller.php file within the JQuarks4s component directory.
Upgrade to a patched version of the JQuarks4s component (if available). Since the component is old, this may not be possible. Consider removing the component if it is not actively used.
Implement input validation and sanitization on the q parameter within the submitSurvey function. This includes escaping special characters and using parameterized queries or prepared statements to prevent SQL injection.
Enable magic_quotes_gpc (though this is a deprecated PHP feature and not recommended as a primary security measure).
Implement a Web Application Firewall (WAF) to filter malicious requests.
Regularly update Joomla! and all installed components to the latest versions.
Review and harden the database server configuration to restrict access and permissions.
Conduct regular security audits and penetration testing to identify and address vulnerabilities.