CVE-2010-1433 in Joomla
Summary
by MITRE • 06/22/2021
Joomla! Core is prone to a vulnerability that lets attackers upload arbitrary files because the application fails to properly verify user-supplied input. An attacker can exploit this vulnerability to upload arbitrary code and run it in the context of the webserver process. This may facilitate unauthorized access or privilege escalation; other attacks are also possible. Joomla! Core versions 1.5.x ranging from 1.5.0 and up to and including 1.5.15 are vulnerable.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/24/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2010-1433 represents a critical file upload validation flaw in Joomla! Core versions 1.5.0 through 1.5.15, specifically targeting the application's failure to properly sanitize user-supplied input during file upload operations. This weakness creates a pathway for remote code execution attacks by allowing malicious actors to bypass intended security restrictions that should prevent arbitrary file uploads. The vulnerability stems from insufficient validation of file extensions and content types, enabling attackers to upload malicious files that can be executed within the web server context. Such a flaw directly violates security principles outlined in the OWASP Top Ten and aligns with CWE-434, which describes insecure file upload vulnerabilities where applications fail to validate file types and contents properly. The impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized access as it provides attackers with the ability to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the web server process, potentially leading to full system compromise and privilege escalation scenarios.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker attempts to upload a malicious file through Joomla!'s file upload functionality without proper input validation. The application's inadequate sanitization process allows attackers to bypass security checks by uploading files with extensions that should be restricted, or by manipulating file headers and content types to appear legitimate. This type of vulnerability falls under the ATT&CK framework's technique T1505.003 for "Server-Side Template Injection" and T1078.004 for "Valid Accounts" when attackers gain access through compromised web server permissions. The vulnerability's exploitation typically involves uploading a web shell or malicious script that can be executed by the web server, creating a persistent backdoor for attackers. The web server process context is particularly significant because it often runs with elevated privileges, making successful exploitation potentially devastating for the entire system.
The operational impact of CVE-2010-1433 is severe and multifaceted, affecting organizations that rely on Joomla was widely used for content management systems across various industries, making numerous organizations susceptible to this attack vector. Organizations may face regulatory compliance violations, financial losses, and reputational damage when this vulnerability is exploited. The vulnerability's persistence is enhanced by the fact that once a malicious file is uploaded and executed, it can remain undetected for extended periods, allowing attackers to maintain access and conduct further reconnaissance or attacks. This vulnerability also demonstrates the critical importance of proper input validation and the principle of least privilege in web application security.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2010-1433 should focus on immediate patching and implementation of multiple defensive layers. The most effective immediate solution is upgrading to Joomla! Core version 1.5.16 or later, which includes proper input validation and file type checking mechanisms. Organizations should implement strict file upload restrictions by validating file extensions against a whitelist of approved types, implementing content type checks, and storing uploaded files outside the web root directory. Additional security measures include implementing proper access controls, monitoring file upload activities, and conducting regular security audits of uploaded content. Network-level protections such as web application firewalls can help detect and block malicious upload attempts, while application-level protections should enforce strict validation of all file attributes including MIME types, file signatures, and size limitations. The remediation process should also include disabling unnecessary file upload functionality where possible and implementing comprehensive logging to detect suspicious activities. Organizations should also consider implementing the principle of least privilege for web server accounts and regularly reviewing file permissions to minimize potential damage from successful exploitation attempts.