CVE-2014-7228 in Akeeba Restore
Summary
by MITRE
Akeeba Restore (restore.php), as used in Joomla! 2.5.4 through 2.5.25, 3.x through 3.2.5, and 3.3.0 through 3.3.4; Akeeba Backup for Joomla! Professional 3.0.0 through 4.0.2; Backup Professional for WordPress 1.0.b1 through 1.1.3; Solo 1.0.b1 through 1.1.2; Admin Tools Core and Professional 2.0.0 through 2.4.4; and CMS Update 1.0.a1 through 1.0.1, when performing a backup or update for an archive, does not delete parameters from $_GET and $_POST when it is cleansing $_REQUEST, but later accesses $_GET and $_POST using the getQueryParam function, which allows remote attackers to bypass encryption and execute arbitrary code via a command message that extracts a crafted archive.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/06/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2014-7228 represents a critical security flaw in multiple backup and restoration components within the Joomla! ecosystem and related WordPress plugins. This issue stems from improper parameter handling during the cleansing process of HTTP request variables, creating a persistent security gap that allows attackers to manipulate system operations through crafted input parameters.
The technical flaw manifests in the Akeeba Restore component's handling of HTTP request data where the system performs cleansing operations on the $_REQUEST superglobal but fails to properly sanitize the underlying $_GET and $_POST arrays. This inconsistency creates a scenario where malicious parameters can persist in the request processing pipeline. The vulnerability specifically affects versions of Joomla and WordPress platforms. The flaw operates through the getQueryParam function which accesses the $_GET and $_POST variables directly, bypassing the cleansing performed on $_REQUEST.
When an attacker exploits this vulnerability, they can craft a malicious command message that extracts a specially designed archive file, effectively bypassing the intended encryption mechanisms and gaining the ability to execute arbitrary code on the target system. This represents a severe privilege escalation vulnerability that could allow attackers to take full control of the affected web server. The attack vector leverages the improper parameter handling during backup and update operations, where the system's attempt to secure input data actually creates a backdoor for malicious code execution.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution to encompass complete system compromise, data theft, and potential lateral movement within network environments. Attackers can leverage this flaw to install backdoors, modify system files, steal sensitive information, and establish persistent access to compromised systems. The vulnerability affects both Joomla! content management systems and WordPress platforms, making it particularly dangerous given the widespread adoption of these platforms. The flaw's persistence across multiple versions and products indicates a fundamental design issue in the parameter handling logic that required coordinated patching efforts across various software components.
Security professionals should consider this vulnerability in relation to CWE-20, which addresses improper input validation, and the ATT&CK framework's T1059.007 technique for command and scripting interpreter. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper parameter sanitization and the potential for seemingly benign input handling routines to create security holes. Organizations should implement immediate patching of affected versions, monitor for suspicious backup and update activities, and consider implementing additional network-level protections to detect and prevent exploitation attempts. The remediation process requires careful attention to the specific versions mentioned in the CVE description and coordinated updates across all affected software components within the ecosystem.