CVE-2007-2143 in Joomla Template Be2004-2
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in index.php in the Be2004-2 template for Joomla! allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the mosConfig_absolute_path parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/06/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-2143 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw within the Joomla! content management system that specifically affects the Be2004-2 template. This issue stems from improper input validation and sanitization mechanisms within the index.php file of the affected template, creating an avenue for malicious actors to inject and execute arbitrary PHP code on vulnerable systems. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-98 as "Improper Control of Code Generation Facilities," which directly relates to the insecure handling of user-supplied input that gets incorporated into code execution paths. The attack vector leverages the mosConfig_absolute_path parameter, which should normally contain a valid absolute file path but can be manipulated by remote attackers to point to malicious remote resources.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker crafts a malicious URL and passes it through the mosConfig_absolute_path parameter, which is then processed by the vulnerable index.php script without adequate sanitization. This allows the PHP interpreter to include and execute remote code from the attacker-controlled URL, effectively granting the attacker complete control over the affected web server. The flaw exists due to the template's failure to properly validate or escape input parameters before using them in file inclusion operations, creating a classic remote code execution vulnerability that aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190 "Exploit Public-Facing Application" and T1059.007 "Command and Scripting Interpreter: PowerShell." The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it allows for arbitrary code execution without requiring authentication, making it highly attractive to threat actors seeking to compromise Joomla! installations.
The operational impact of CVE-2007-2143 extends far beyond simple code execution, as successful exploitation can lead to complete system compromise, data theft, and the establishment of persistent backdoors. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to deploy web shells, exfiltrate sensitive data, or use the compromised server as a launchpad for further attacks within the network infrastructure. The vulnerability affects Joomla versions, making it a widespread concern across numerous web applications. Organizations running vulnerable systems face significant risk of unauthorized access, data breaches, and potential regulatory compliance violations, especially in environments where sensitive information is processed or stored. The attack surface is particularly broad since the vulnerability can be exploited through standard web browser interactions without requiring specialized tools or extensive reconnaissance.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should include immediate patching of affected Joomla! installations, which was addressed through version updates that properly validate and sanitize the mosConfig_absolute_path parameter. System administrators should implement input validation measures that prevent the inclusion of external URLs in critical parameters and disable the use of remote file inclusion features where possible. Network-level protections such as web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems can help detect and block exploitation attempts by monitoring for suspicious URL patterns and parameter manipulation. Additionally, organizations should conduct comprehensive security assessments to identify other potential remote file inclusion vulnerabilities within their web applications, as this flaw demonstrates the importance of proper input validation and secure coding practices. The remediation process should also include disabling the use of remote file inclusion features in PHP configurations and implementing strict file path validation to prevent similar vulnerabilities from occurring in the future.