CVE-2007-2319 in Autostand Category
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in the AutoStand 1.1 and earlier module for Joomla! allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the mosConfig_absolute_path parameter to mod_as_category.php in (1) modules/mod_as_category/ or (2) modules/.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/05/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-2319 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw in the AutoStand module for Joomla! versions 1.1 and earlier. This vulnerability resides within the mod_as_category.php script and specifically targets the mosConfig_absolute_path parameter, creating a pathway for remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code on vulnerable systems. The flaw stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization within the module's parameter handling mechanism, allowing malicious actors to inject external URLs that are subsequently included and executed by the PHP interpreter. This type of vulnerability falls under the category of CWE-88, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in an expression, and specifically aligns with CWE-94, representing improper execution of code, as it enables arbitrary code execution through file inclusion mechanisms.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker crafts a malicious URL and passes it as the mosConfig_absolute_path parameter to the vulnerable mod_as_category.php script. When the Joomla! application processes this parameter without proper validation, it treats the supplied URL as a legitimate file path and attempts to include and execute the remote file. This process typically involves the use of PHP's include or require functions, which when fed with attacker-controlled input, result in the execution of malicious code hosted on remote servers. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it allows attackers to bypass normal access controls and execute code with the privileges of the web server, potentially leading to complete system compromise and unauthorized access to sensitive data.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends far beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with extensive capabilities for system compromise and data exfiltration. Successful exploitation can lead to the installation of backdoors, creation of web shells, and unauthorized access to databases and server resources. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to establish persistent access, escalate privileges, and conduct further reconnaissance within the compromised network. The vulnerability affects not just individual websites but potentially entire Joomla! installations, as it operates at the module level and can be exploited through various attack vectors including web application scanners, automated exploitation tools, and manual attack techniques. This vulnerability directly maps to several tactics in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under the T1190 category for Exploit Public-Facing Application, and T1059 for Command and Scripting Interpreter, demonstrating the comprehensive nature of the threat.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2007-2319 require immediate action to address the root cause through proper input validation and parameter sanitization. Organizations should implement strict parameter validation for all user-supplied inputs, particularly those used in file inclusion operations, and employ allowlists rather than blocklists for acceptable parameter values. The recommended approach includes disabling remote file inclusion functionality in PHP configurations, implementing proper input sanitization techniques, and applying the latest security patches from Joomla platform.