CVE-2010-2918 in Com Joomla Visites
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in core/include/myMailer.class.php in the Visites (com_joomla-visites) component 1.1 RC2 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 • 09/08/2025
The CVE-2010-2918 vulnerability represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw within the Visites component for Joomla! version 1.1 RC2, specifically affecting the myMailer.class.php file in the core/include directory. This vulnerability stems from improper input validation and sanitization mechanisms that fail to properly restrict user-supplied data from being directly incorporated into file inclusion operations. The flaw occurs when the mosConfig_absolute_path parameter is manipulated through user input, allowing malicious actors to inject arbitrary URLs that are subsequently processed by the PHP include or require functions. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-98, which describes improper control of code generation and execution, and specifically manifests as a remote code execution vector through insecure file inclusion practices. The component's failure to validate or sanitize the absolute path parameter creates an environment where attacker-controlled URLs can be executed within the context of the web application.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability requires an attacker to craft a malicious URL that targets the vulnerable parameter in the Visites component. When the application processes this parameter without proper validation, it effectively treats the injected URL as a legitimate file path and attempts to include it as PHP code. This creates a remote code execution scenario where attackers can execute arbitrary PHP commands on the target server, potentially gaining full control over the web application and underlying system. The vulnerability operates at the application layer and can be leveraged to establish persistent access, exfiltrate sensitive data, or deploy additional malware. The attack vector specifically targets the component's mailer functionality, where the insecure parameter handling allows for code injection during email processing operations.
The operational impact of CVE-2010-2918 extends beyond simple code execution to encompass complete system compromise and data breach potential. Successful exploitation enables attackers to execute commands with the privileges of the web server process, potentially leading to unauthorized access to databases, file systems, and network resources. The vulnerability affects Joomla! installations running the specific Visites component version 1.1 RC2, making it particularly dangerous for websites that have not implemented proper security patches or updates. Organizations running affected systems face significant risk of data theft, service disruption, and potential regulatory compliance violations. The vulnerability's classification under ATT&CK technique T1059.007 (Command and Scripting Interpreter: PowerShell) and T1566 (Phishing) highlights its potential for lateral movement and initial access exploitation within compromised environments. Security teams must consider the broader implications of this vulnerability, including potential chain reactions in multi-tiered applications where the compromised system may serve as an entry point to other connected systems.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2010-2918 require immediate patching of the affected Joomla! component to version 1.1 RC3 or later, which contains the necessary security fixes for the insecure parameter handling. System administrators should implement input validation controls that sanitize all user-supplied data before processing, particularly focusing on URL parameters and file path inputs. The implementation of web application firewalls with rules specifically designed to detect and block malicious file inclusion patterns provides an additional layer of protection. Organizations should also consider disabling the vulnerable component if it is not essential for operations, or implementing strict file inclusion policies that prevent dynamic inclusion of external resources. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be conducted to identify similar insecure coding practices within other applications and components. The remediation process should include monitoring for exploitation attempts and implementing proper access controls to limit the impact of any successful attacks that may occur despite preventive measures.