CVE-2009-2634 in Com Medialibrary
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in toolbar_ext.php in the MediaLibrary (com_media_library) component 1.5.3 Basic for Joomla! 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 • 12/01/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2009-2634 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw within the Joomla! Content Management System's MediaLibrary component version 1.5.3 Basic. This issue resides in the toolbar_ext.php file which processes user-supplied input through the mosConfig_absolute_path parameter without adequate validation or sanitization. The flaw enables attackers to inject malicious URLs that are subsequently included and executed on the target server, creating a pathway for arbitrary code execution and complete system compromise.
The technical nature of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-88, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in an expression, specifically in the context of remote file inclusion attacks. The vulnerability operates by accepting a URL parameter that is directly incorporated into a file inclusion statement, bypassing normal input validation mechanisms. This allows threat actors to reference remote malicious files hosted on attacker-controlled servers, effectively transforming the vulnerable Joomla! installation into a potential command and control node for further attacks.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability presents severe implications for Joomla framework components and can be leveraged to escalate privileges, modify website content, or establish persistent access to target environments.
The attack vector for CVE-2009-2634 follows standard remote file inclusion patterns documented in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under techniques related to remote code execution and privilege escalation. The vulnerability's exploitation requires minimal prerequisites beyond knowledge of the target system and basic web application attack skills. Security professionals should note that this vulnerability existed in a widely deployed version of Joomla versions, implementing web application firewalls, and conducting comprehensive security assessments of their web applications. The vulnerability also underscores the importance of following secure coding practices such as input validation, output encoding, and the principle of least privilege in web application development to prevent similar issues from occurring in future implementations.