CVE-2009-4094 in Com Ezine
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in class/php/d4m_ajax_pagenav.php in the D4J eZine (com_ezine) component 2.1 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 • 06/08/2025
The CVE-2009-4094 vulnerability represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw within the D4J eZine component version 2.1 for Joomla! platforms. This vulnerability exists in the class/php/d4m_ajax_pagenav.php file where the application fails to properly validate or sanitize user input before incorporating it into file inclusion operations. The specific parameter affected is GLOBALS[mosConfig_absolute_path] which serves as a critical entry point for malicious exploitation. The vulnerability stems from the component's improper handling of global variables during the execution of AJAX pagination functionality, creating an avenue for attackers to inject malicious file paths that will be executed by the PHP interpreter.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-88, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in an expression, specifically in the context of argument injection. Attackers can exploit this weakness by crafting malicious URLs that manipulate the GLOBALS[mosConfig_absolute_path] parameter to point to remote malicious PHP scripts hosted on external servers. When the vulnerable Joomla! application processes this parameter during AJAX pagination operations, it includes and executes the attacker-controlled remote file, effectively providing a remote code execution capability. This flaw operates under the broader category of CWE-94, which encompasses improper execution of control flow modifications, where the application's control flow is manipulated through untrusted input.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution to encompass complete system compromise. Once exploited, attackers gain the ability to execute arbitrary commands on the affected server, potentially leading to data breaches, system infiltration, and further lateral movement within network environments. The vulnerability affects all Joomla! installations running the specific D4J eZine component version 2.1, making it particularly dangerous as it targets a widely deployed content management system. The attack vector requires minimal privileges and can be executed through standard web browser interactions, making it highly accessible to threat actors across different skill levels. This vulnerability directly maps to ATT&CK technique T1190, which describes the use of remote services for initial access, and T1059, which covers the execution of commands through various interfaces.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2009-4094 require immediate action to address the root cause of the vulnerability. The primary recommendation involves upgrading to the patched version of the D4J eZine component, which properly validates and sanitizes input parameters before processing. Administrators should implement proper input validation and output encoding mechanisms to prevent malicious data from being processed as part of file inclusion operations. Additionally, the use of web application firewalls and security monitoring tools can help detect and block exploitation attempts. System hardening measures including disabling remote file inclusion capabilities in PHP configurations and implementing strict file permission controls can provide additional defense layers. The vulnerability also underscores the importance of regular security audits and component updates as part of comprehensive security management practices, aligning with security frameworks that emphasize the need for continuous monitoring and remediation of known vulnerabilities.