CVE-2007-5457 in Joomla Flash Uploader
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple PHP remote file inclusion vulnerabilities in Michael Dempfle Joomla Flash Uploader (com_jfu or com_joomla_flash_uploader) 2.5.1 component for Joomla! allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the mosConfig_absolute_path parameter to (1) install.joomla_flash_uploader.php and (2) uninstall.joomla_flash_uploader.php.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/07/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-5457 represents a critical remote code execution flaw within the Joomla Flash Uploader component version 2.5.1, which is a widely deployed content management system extension. This vulnerability falls under the category of remote file inclusion attacks that exploit improper input validation mechanisms within web applications. The affected component, known as com_jfu or com_joomla_flash_uploader, was designed to facilitate flash file uploads within Joomla! environments but contained dangerous parameter handling that allowed attackers to inject malicious file paths. The vulnerability specifically impacts two key files within the component's installation and uninstallation processes, creating a persistent attack vector that could be exploited regardless of the user's administrative privileges.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through manipulation of the mosConfig_absolute_path parameter within the HTTP request to either install.joomla_flash_uploader.php or uninstall.joomla_flash_uploader.php. When these files process the parameter without proper validation or sanitization, they become susceptible to including remote files from attacker-controlled servers. This flaw directly maps to CWE-88, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in an input vector, specifically in the context of remote file inclusion vulnerabilities. The vulnerability is classified as a remote code execution threat because successful exploitation allows attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code on the target server, effectively granting them complete control over the affected system. This represents a fundamental breach of the application's integrity and confidentiality guarantees, as attackers can execute commands with the privileges of the web server process.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution to encompass complete system compromise and potential data breaches. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to establish persistent backdoors, exfiltrate sensitive data, modify website content, or use the compromised server as a launching point for attacks against other systems within the network. The vulnerability's presence in both installation and uninstallation scripts creates a particularly dangerous scenario where attackers can potentially manipulate the component's lifecycle operations, leading to more sophisticated attack vectors. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability aligns with T1190 - Exploit Public-Facing Application, which describes techniques used to exploit vulnerabilities in externally accessible applications. The impact is amplified by the widespread adoption of Joomla! and its components, meaning that a single vulnerable installation could serve as a foothold for larger-scale attacks against organizations using this platform.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2007-5457 require immediate action including the complete removal of the vulnerable component from all affected Joomla installations are updated to supported versions and that proper security hardening practices are implemented, including the principle of least privilege for web server processes and regular security audits to identify and remediate similar vulnerabilities in other components.