CVE-2015-8564 in Joomla
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in Joomla! 3.4.x before 3.4.6 allows remote attackers to have unspecified impact via directory traversal sequences in the XML install file in an extension package archive.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/21/2019
The CVE-2015-8564 vulnerability represents a critical directory traversal flaw within Joomla! version 3.4.x prior to 3.4.6, specifically affecting the extension installation process. This vulnerability resides in the XML parsing mechanism used during extension package installations, where the system fails to properly validate and sanitize directory traversal sequences embedded within XML install files. The flaw enables remote attackers to manipulate the installation process by crafting malicious extension packages containing crafted directory traversal sequences, potentially leading to arbitrary file operations and system compromise.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation within the Joomla! extension installer component. When processing extension package archives, the system does not adequately sanitize file paths specified in XML install files, allowing attackers to insert sequences such as ../ or ..\ that can traverse the filesystem. This weakness directly maps to CWE-22, which defines improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal or directory traversal. The vulnerability operates at the application layer where the XML parser fails to enforce proper path validation, creating an attack surface that can be exploited without authentication.
The operational impact of CVE-2015-8564 extends beyond simple file access violations, potentially enabling attackers to execute arbitrary code, modify critical system files, or gain unauthorized access to sensitive data. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to upload malicious files to arbitrary locations on the server, install backdoors, or manipulate the Joomla! installation itself. The remote exploitation capability means that attackers can target vulnerable systems without requiring local access or credentials, making this vulnerability particularly dangerous in web server environments. The unspecified impact mentioned in the CVE description suggests that the vulnerability could lead to various security consequences including privilege escalation, data exfiltration, or complete system compromise.
Security professionals should consider this vulnerability in the context of the MITRE ATT&CK framework, particularly under the techniques related to privilege escalation and persistence. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059 for command and scripting interpreter and T1078 for valid accounts, as attackers may use the compromised system to establish persistent access or execute malicious commands. Organizations running affected Joomla! versions should implement immediate mitigations including updating to version 3.4.6 or later, implementing proper input validation for extension packages, and monitoring for suspicious installation activities. Network segmentation and web application firewalls can provide additional layers of protection while awaiting patch deployment, though these measures are not sufficient to fully address the vulnerability without proper software updates. The vulnerability underscores the importance of maintaining current software versions and implementing robust security controls around application installation processes.