CVE-2008-5671 in Joomla
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in index.php in Joomla! 1.0.11 through 1.0.14, when RG_EMULATION is enabled in configuration.php, 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 • 08/03/2021
This vulnerability exists in Joomla! versions 1.0.11 through 1.0.14 where the remote file inclusion flaw occurs when the RG_EMULATION setting is enabled in the configuration.php file. The vulnerability specifically affects the index.php script and allows attackers to inject malicious URLs through the mosConfig_absolute_path parameter, enabling arbitrary code execution on the target server. The flaw represents a classic remote code execution vulnerability that can be exploited to gain complete control over the affected web application. The vulnerability is categorized under CWE-88 as improper neutralization of argument delimiters in a command, and it aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190 for exploitation of remote services. When RG_EMULATION is enabled, the application fails to properly validate and sanitize input parameters, creating an attack surface where external URLs can be included and executed as PHP code.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the insecure handling of the mosConfig_absolute_path parameter which is processed without adequate input validation or sanitization. Attackers can craft malicious URLs and pass them through this parameter, causing the application to include and execute remote PHP files. The vulnerability becomes particularly dangerous when combined with the RG_EMULATION feature, which was designed to emulate certain behaviors but inadvertently created a security loophole. This allows remote attackers to leverage the configuration setting to execute arbitrary commands on the server, potentially leading to full system compromise. The vulnerability's impact is amplified because it requires minimal user interaction and can be exploited through simple HTTP requests containing malicious URLs.
The operational impact of CVE-2008-5671 is severe and can result in complete system compromise, data theft, and service disruption. Successful exploitation enables attackers to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the web server process, potentially allowing them to install backdoors, steal sensitive data, modify content, or use the compromised server for further attacks. The vulnerability affects a wide range of Joomla were vulnerable to attacks that could lead to persistent access, data breaches, and potential use as a launchpad for broader network infiltration. The vulnerability's exploitation typically requires no specialized tools beyond standard web browsing capabilities, making it accessible to attackers with minimal technical expertise.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability include immediate patching of affected Joomla! installations to versions 1.0.15 or later where the vulnerability has been addressed. Organizations should disable the RG_EMULATION feature in their configuration.php files if it is not absolutely necessary for operation. Input validation and sanitization measures should be implemented to prevent malicious URLs from being processed through parameter inputs. Web application firewalls can provide additional protection by filtering suspicious URL patterns and monitoring for known exploitation attempts. Regular security audits and vulnerability assessments should be conducted to identify similar insecure coding practices. System administrators should also implement proper access controls and monitoring to detect unauthorized code execution attempts. The vulnerability serves as a critical reminder of the importance of proper input validation and secure coding practices, particularly when handling user-supplied data that could influence file inclusion operations.