CVE-2007-5451 in com_colorlab
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in admin.color.php in the com_colorlab (aka com_color) 1.0 component for Joomla! allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the mosConfig_live_site parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/07/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-5451 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw within the Joomla! content management system, specifically affecting the com_colorlab component version 1.0. This vulnerability resides in the admin.color.php file and demonstrates a classic insecure direct object reference pattern that enables malicious actors to manipulate application behavior through crafted input parameters. The flaw occurs when the application fails to properly validate or sanitize user-supplied input before incorporating it into file inclusion operations, creating an avenue for arbitrary code execution.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability leverages the mosConfig_live_site parameter which is processed without adequate input validation, allowing attackers to inject malicious URLs that point to remote servers containing malicious PHP code. When the application processes this parameter and attempts to include the specified file, it executes the attacker-controlled code within the context of the web server, effectively granting remote code execution capabilities. This type of vulnerability falls under CWE-88, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in an OS command, and more specifically aligns with CWE-94, representing improper execution of code, as the vulnerability allows for arbitrary code execution through file inclusion mechanisms.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with complete control over the affected Joomla! installation. Once exploited, adversaries can establish persistent backdoors, exfiltrate sensitive data, modify website content, or use the compromised system as a launching point for further attacks within the network infrastructure. The vulnerability's remote nature means that exploitation can occur without any local access requirements, making it particularly dangerous for web applications that are publicly accessible. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to T1059.007 for execution through PHP and T1190 for exploitation of remote services, representing a significant threat vector for attackers seeking to compromise web applications.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2007-5451 require immediate action including the application of vendor patches, which would typically involve updating the com_colorlab component to a version that properly sanitizes input parameters. Organizations should implement input validation controls that reject any non-local URLs or implement strict parameter validation to prevent remote file inclusion attacks. Additionally, web application firewalls can be configured to detect and block suspicious URL patterns that attempt to exploit this vulnerability. The security community recommends disabling remote file inclusion features in PHP configurations and implementing proper access controls to limit the impact of such vulnerabilities. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be conducted to identify similar flaws in other components of the Joomla! platform, as this vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper input validation and secure coding practices in preventing remote code execution attacks.