CVE-2007-5427 in Joomla
Summary
by MITRE
Cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerability in the com_search component in Joomla! 1.0.13 and earlier allows remote attackers to inject arbitrary web script or HTML via the searchword parameter. NOTE: this might be related to CVE-2007-4189.1.
Be aware that VulDB is the high quality source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/24/2025
The cross-site scripting vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-5427 affects Joomla! content management systems version 1.0.13 and earlier, specifically within the com_search component. This vulnerability represents a critical security flaw that enables remote attackers to execute malicious scripts in the context of affected users' browsers. The issue arises from insufficient input validation and output sanitization mechanisms within the search functionality, creating an avenue for persistent code injection attacks that can compromise user sessions and data integrity.
The technical flaw manifests through the improper handling of the searchword parameter, which serves as the primary injection vector for malicious payloads. When users submit search queries through the vulnerable component, the application fails to adequately sanitize user input before rendering it in web pages. This allows attackers to embed malicious JavaScript code, HTML tags, or other harmful content that executes in the victim's browser when the search results are displayed. The vulnerability falls under CWE-79 which specifically addresses cross-site scripting flaws in web applications, where the system fails to properly validate or escape user-supplied data before incorporating it into dynamically generated content.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple script execution, as it can enable attackers to perform session hijacking, deface websites, steal sensitive information, or redirect users to malicious domains. Users who visit affected Joomla! sites and are logged in as administrators or regular users may unknowingly execute malicious code that could lead to complete system compromise. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous in environments where administrators frequently use search functions, as it could allow attackers to escalate privileges and gain unauthorized access to sensitive administrative features. According to ATT&CK framework category T1531, this vulnerability represents a technique for privilege escalation through the exploitation of web application flaws.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2007-5427 require immediate patching of affected Joomla! installations to version 1.0.14 or later, which includes proper input sanitization and output encoding mechanisms. System administrators should also implement additional security measures such as input validation at multiple layers, including web application firewalls that can detect and block suspicious payloads, and regular security audits of web applications. The vulnerability highlights the importance of proper secure coding practices, particularly input validation and output encoding, which are fundamental requirements in the OWASP Top Ten security risks. Organizations should also consider implementing Content Security Policy headers to limit the execution of unauthorized scripts and establish comprehensive monitoring for suspicious search activity that could indicate exploitation attempts.