CVE-2009-2015 in Com Moofaq
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in includes/file_includer.php in the Ideal MooFAQ (com_moofaq) component 1.0 for Joomla! allows remote attackers to read arbitrary files via a .. (dot dot) in the file parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/01/2024
The directory traversal vulnerability identified as CVE-2009-2015 affects the Ideal MooFAQ component version 1.0 for Joomla! platforms, specifically within the includes/file_includer.php file. This vulnerability represents a classic path traversal attack vector that enables remote attackers to access arbitrary files on the server by manipulating the file parameter through directory traversal sequences. The flaw occurs when the application fails to properly validate or sanitize user input before using it in file inclusion operations, creating an opportunity for malicious actors to navigate beyond the intended directory boundaries.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation mechanisms within the file_includer.php script. When a user supplies a file parameter containing directory traversal sequences such as .. or ../, the application processes these inputs without proper sanitization or restriction, allowing attackers to specify paths that extend beyond the intended file inclusion scope. This weakness directly maps to CWE-22, which categorizes path traversal vulnerabilities as a fundamental issue in input validation and access control. The vulnerability operates at the application layer, specifically targeting the file inclusion functionality that is commonly used to dynamically load components or modules within content management systems.
The operational impact of CVE-2009-2015 extends beyond simple file reading capabilities, as it can potentially expose sensitive system information including configuration files, database credentials, and other critical application data. Attackers could leverage this vulnerability to access php.ini files, database connection strings, or other sensitive configuration data that might be stored in accessible directories. The remote nature of this attack means that exploitation does not require local system access or authentication, making it particularly dangerous for web applications that are publicly accessible. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1083 (File and Directory Discovery) and T1566 (Phishing with Malicious Attachment) as attackers could use the exposed information to craft more sophisticated attacks against the target system or its users.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on implementing proper input validation and sanitization measures within the file inclusion logic. The recommended approach involves filtering or rejecting any input containing directory traversal sequences, implementing strict file path validation, and using whitelisting mechanisms to restrict file access to predefined safe directories. Additionally, the application should employ proper access controls and ensure that file inclusion operations are performed within restricted sandboxed environments. System administrators should also implement regular security audits and input validation checks to prevent similar vulnerabilities from being introduced in future code implementations. The vulnerability highlights the critical importance of input validation as a fundamental security control and demonstrates how seemingly simple flaws can create significant security risks in web applications.