CVE-2007-6555 in mosDirectory
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in modules/mod_pxt_latest.php in the mosDirectory (com_directory) 2.3.2 component for Joomla! allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the GLOBALS[mosConfig_absolute_path] parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/13/2024
The vulnerability described in CVE-2007-6555 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw within the mosDirectory component for Joomla! version 2.3.2. This vulnerability exists in the mod_pxt_latest.php module and demonstrates a classic insecure parameter handling issue that enables attackers to inject malicious code through web application input fields. The flaw specifically targets the GLOBALS[mosConfig_absolute_path] parameter, which is improperly validated and sanitized before being used in file inclusion operations. This vulnerability falls under the category of CWE-88, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in an expression, and more specifically aligns with CWE-94, which addresses the execution of arbitrary code or commands. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this as a command and control technique under T1059, where adversaries leverage application vulnerabilities to execute malicious code on target systems.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability exploits the trust placed in user-supplied input within the Joomla! component architecture. When an attacker crafts a malicious URL and injects it into the GLOBALS[mosConfig_absolute_path] parameter, the application fails to properly validate or sanitize this input before using it in a file inclusion context. This allows the attacker to reference external malicious files that are then executed on the target server, effectively providing remote code execution capabilities. The vulnerability stems from the lack of proper input validation and the absence of a secure file inclusion mechanism within the component's codebase. Attackers can leverage this flaw to upload and execute arbitrary PHP code, potentially leading to complete system compromise.
The operational impact of CVE-2007-6555 is severe and multifaceted, as it provides attackers with direct execution capabilities on vulnerable Joomla installations exist. The attack surface extends beyond individual sites to include potential data exfiltration, service disruption, and the installation of backdoors or additional malware. Organizations running affected versions of Joomla! are particularly vulnerable to these attacks, as the flaw exists in widely deployed components that are often overlooked during security assessments.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2007-6555 should prioritize immediate patching and updates to the affected Joomla! component, as the vendor has released fixes for this vulnerability. Organizations should implement input validation measures to prevent malicious parameters from reaching the vulnerable code paths, including the use of allowlists for acceptable values and proper sanitization of all user inputs. Network-level protections such as web application firewalls can help detect and block malicious requests targeting this vulnerability, though these should not be considered a complete solution. Security configurations should enforce proper file inclusion practices and disable remote file inclusion capabilities where possible. Additionally, regular security audits and vulnerability assessments should be conducted to identify and remediate similar issues in other components, with particular attention to the principles of least privilege and secure coding practices that prevent such flaws from occurring in the first place. The vulnerability highlights the importance of input validation and secure parameter handling in web applications, emphasizing that all user-supplied data should be treated as potentially malicious until properly validated.