CVE-2006-1956 in Mambo
Summary
by MITRE
The com_rss option (rss.php) in (1) Mambo and (2) Joomla! allows remote attackers to obtain sensitive information via an invalid feed parameter, which reveals the path in an error message.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/25/2018
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2006-1956 resides within the com_rss component of both Mambo and Joomla! content management systems, representing a classic information disclosure flaw that exposes system paths through improper error handling. This vulnerability specifically affects the rss.php script which processes feed parameters, creating a scenario where remote attackers can manipulate input to trigger error messages containing sensitive filesystem paths. The flaw demonstrates poor input validation and error message generation practices that directly violate security best practices for preventing information leakage.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability exploits the lack of proper parameter validation within the rss.php component, where the com_rss option fails to sanitize or properly validate the feed parameter before processing. When an invalid feed parameter is submitted, the system generates an error message that inadvertently reveals the full filesystem path where the application is installed. This occurs because the application does not implement proper error handling mechanisms that would prevent sensitive path information from being exposed to unauthorized users. The vulnerability falls under CWE-200, which specifically addresses improper error message generation that reveals system information, making it a clear example of information disclosure through error handling flaws. The error message typically contains the absolute path to the vulnerable component, potentially exposing directory structures that could aid attackers in subsequent exploitation attempts.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability creates significant security risks for affected systems as it provides attackers with crucial information needed for further exploitation. The revealed filesystem paths can be used to map the application's directory structure, identify potential attack vectors, and plan more sophisticated attacks against the system. Attackers can leverage this information to craft targeted attacks against specific files or directories, potentially leading to privilege escalation, data theft, or complete system compromise. The vulnerability also violates fundamental security principles outlined in the OWASP Top Ten, specifically addressing the risk of information disclosure that can be exploited to gain unauthorized access to system resources. The exposure of system paths creates a reconnaissance advantage for threat actors and can be combined with other vulnerabilities to achieve more severe outcomes.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2006-1956 should focus on implementing proper input validation and error handling practices that prevent sensitive information disclosure. Organizations should immediately patch affected systems with the latest security updates from Mambo and Joomla! vendors, as both platforms have released fixes addressing this vulnerability. The recommended approach includes configuring the application to suppress detailed error messages in production environments and implementing generic error handling that does not reveal system paths or internal application structures. Security hardening measures should also include monitoring and logging of error conditions while ensuring that error messages are sanitized before display to users. Additionally, implementing proper access controls and network segmentation can reduce the impact of such vulnerabilities by limiting the attack surface and preventing unauthorized access to sensitive system information. This vulnerability highlights the importance of following secure coding practices and proper error handling as outlined in the ATT&CK framework under the information gathering and credential access tactics, where information disclosure serves as a foundational step for more advanced attacks.