CVE-2018-17857 in Joomla
Summary
by MITRE
An issue was discovered in Joomla! before 3.8.13. Inadequate checks on the tags search fields can lead to an access level violation.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/23/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-17857 represents a critical access control flaw within the Joomla! content management system affecting versions prior to 3.8.13. This issue stems from insufficient validation mechanisms applied to tag search functionality, creating a pathway for unauthorized users to bypass intended access restrictions. The flaw specifically manifests when users attempt to search for content using tag parameters, allowing them to potentially view resources they should not have access to based on their assigned user permissions.
The technical root cause of this vulnerability resides in the improper sanitization and validation of user input within the tag search component of Joomla!. When users submit search queries containing tag parameters, the system fails to adequately verify whether the requesting user possesses the necessary privileges to access the requested content. This inadequate input validation creates a condition where malicious actors can manipulate search parameters to retrieve content that should be restricted to higher privilege users or specific user groups. The vulnerability operates at the application level, exploiting weaknesses in the access control implementation rather than targeting underlying system infrastructure or network protocols.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it fundamentally undermines the integrity of Joomla serves as a corporate or government portal, where access restrictions are critical for maintaining information security and compliance with regulatory requirements. The flaw can be exploited through standard web browser interactions, making it accessible to attackers without requiring specialized tools or deep technical knowledge.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should prioritize the immediate upgrade of affected Joomla ecosystem.