CVE-2010-4918 in Com Magazine
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in iJoomla Magazine (com_magazine) component 3.0.1 for Joomla! allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the config parameter to magazine.functions.php.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/02/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2010-4918 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw within the iJoomla Magazine component version 3.0.1 for Joomla! platforms. This vulnerability exists in the magazine.functions.php file where the config parameter is processed without proper input validation, creating an avenue for malicious actors to inject and execute arbitrary PHP code on vulnerable systems. The flaw specifically resides in how the application handles user-supplied input when constructing file paths, allowing attackers to manipulate the inclusion process through carefully crafted URLs.
This vulnerability falls under the Common Weakness Enumeration category CWE-98, which classifies it as "Improper Control of Generation of Code ('Code Injection')" and more specifically aligns with CWE-88, "Improper Neutralization of Argument Delimiters in a Command ('Argument Injection')." The attack vector leverages the inherent trust placed in parameter values within the Joomla! framework, where the application fails to sanitize or validate the config parameter before using it to determine which file to include. This type of vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it allows attackers to execute code with the privileges of the web server, potentially leading to complete system compromise.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with persistent access to affected systems and enables them to establish backdoors, exfiltrate sensitive data, or deploy additional malware. In a typical attack scenario, an attacker would craft a malicious URL containing a remote file reference that would be included by the vulnerable application, effectively allowing the attacker to execute their own PHP code on the target server. This vulnerability affects all Joomla and this particular component.
From a threat modeling perspective, this vulnerability aligns with several tactics described in the MITRE ATT&CK framework, particularly T1190 "Exploit Public-Facing Application" and T1059.007 "Command and Scripting Interpreter: PHP." The attack chain typically involves reconnaissance to identify vulnerable Joomla! installations, followed by exploitation of the remote file inclusion vulnerability to gain initial access. Organizations should implement multiple layers of defense including input validation, proper parameter sanitization, and regular security updates to protect against this type of vulnerability. Additionally, the principle of least privilege should be enforced to limit the damage that could occur if such vulnerabilities are successfully exploited, ensuring that web server processes operate with minimal necessary permissions and that sensitive files are properly protected.