CVE-2007-4186 in Tour de France Pool
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in admin.tour_toto.php in the Tour de France Pool (com_tour_toto) 1.0.1 module 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 • 09/24/2025
The CVE-2007-4186 vulnerability represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw discovered in the Tour de France Pool component version 1.0.1 for Joomla content management systems. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization practices that allow attackers to manipulate the mosConfig_absolute_path parameter through maliciously crafted URLs.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability exploits the lack of proper parameter validation in the PHP application code. When the application processes the mosConfig_absolute_path parameter, it fails to properly sanitize or validate the input before incorporating it into file inclusion operations. This creates a scenario where an attacker can inject a malicious URL that points to external resources containing arbitrary PHP code. The vulnerability operates under CWE-98 which categorizes improper input validation leading to remote file inclusion attacks. The flaw essentially allows attackers to bypass normal access controls and execute unauthorized code on the target server, effectively providing them with a backdoor into the system.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and multifaceted. Attackers can leverage this weakness to execute arbitrary code on the target server, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The remote nature of the exploit means that attackers do not require physical access or prior authentication to exploit the vulnerability. This creates a significant risk for Joomla! installations using the affected com_tour_toto module, as the attack can be launched from anywhere on the internet. The vulnerability can be exploited to establish persistent backdoors, steal sensitive data, modify website content, or use the compromised server for further attacks against other systems. The attack surface is particularly concerning because it targets a widely used CMS platform and a specific module that may be installed on numerous websites.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2007-4186 should focus on immediate patching and configuration hardening measures. The most effective immediate solution involves updating to the latest version of the com_tour_toto module or removing the vulnerable component entirely from affected Joomla! installations. System administrators should implement proper input validation and sanitization practices to prevent similar vulnerabilities in the future. This includes validating all user inputs, particularly parameters used in file inclusion operations, and implementing strict access controls. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls to detect and block malicious requests targeting known vulnerability patterns. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of following secure coding practices such as those outlined in the OWASP Top Ten and adheres to ATT&CK framework techniques related to remote code execution through web application vulnerabilities. Regular security audits and vulnerability assessments should be conducted to identify and remediate similar issues across the entire application stack. Additionally, maintaining up-to-date security patches for all CMS components and third-party extensions remains critical in preventing exploitation of known vulnerabilities like this one.