CVE-2011-2889 in Joomla
Summary
by MITRE
templates/system/error.php in Joomla! before 1.5.23 might allow remote attackers to obtain sensitive information via unspecified vectors that trigger an undefined value of a certain error field, leading to disclosure of the installation path. NOTE: this might overlap CVE-2011-2488.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/21/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2011-2889 affects Joomla framework where certain error fields contain undefined values that inadvertently reveal the system installation path. Such path disclosure represents a significant security risk as it provides attackers with valuable information about the server environment and file structure. The vulnerability's classification aligns with CWE-200, which addresses information exposure through improper error handling, and specifically relates to CWE-502 which deals with improper handling of error conditions leading to information disclosure. The attack vector involves remote exploitation through unspecified vectors that trigger the problematic error field, making it particularly concerning as it can be exploited without requiring authentication or prior access to the system.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from how Joomla framework's error reporting system. The vulnerability demonstrates poor separation between system internals and user-facing error messages, allowing internal path information to leak through error responses. Attackers can leverage this information to understand the server configuration, potentially aiding in subsequent attacks such as directory traversal or path traversal exploits. The exploitation process requires no special privileges and can be performed from any remote location, making it particularly dangerous for publicly accessible web applications. This vulnerability also intersects with ATT&CK technique T1212, which involves exploitation of system information discovery mechanisms, and T1083, which covers file and directory discovery through system information gathering.
The operational impact of CVE-2011-2889 extends beyond simple information disclosure, as the revealed installation paths can serve as a foundation for more sophisticated attacks against the affected Joomla face increased risk of successful exploitation, particularly when combined with other vulnerabilities that may exist in the same system. The disclosure of installation paths can also violate privacy requirements and compliance standards such as those outlined in ISO/IEC 27001 and NIST SP 800-53, which mandate protection of system information and prevention of unauthorized disclosure. Additionally, this vulnerability can be exploited in conjunction with other CVE-2011-2488, indicating that organizations may be exposed to multiple related vulnerabilities that compound the security risk.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2011-2889 primarily involve upgrading to Joomla! version 1.5.23 or later, which contains patches addressing the improper error handling mechanism. Organizations should also implement proper error handling configurations that prevent detailed system information from being exposed to end users, including custom error page implementations that do not reveal installation paths or system internals. Network-level protections such as web application firewalls can provide additional layers of defense by monitoring and filtering error responses that might contain sensitive path information. Security hardening practices should include disabling verbose error messages in production environments, implementing proper input validation, and regularly auditing system configurations to prevent similar vulnerabilities from arising. Organizations should also consider implementing monitoring solutions that can detect unusual error patterns or information disclosure attempts, as these may indicate exploitation attempts. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be conducted to identify similar issues in other components of the web application stack, as this vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper error handling throughout the entire application lifecycle. The remediation process should also include reviewing and updating security policies to ensure that error handling procedures align with industry best practices and regulatory requirements.