CVE-2026-48956 in Joomla! CMS
Summary
by MITRE • 07/07/2026
An improper access check allows users to display a list of modules in the frontend.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/07/2026
This vulnerability represents a critical access control flaw that undermines the security boundaries of web applications by allowing unauthorized users to enumerate available modules within the frontend interface. The improper access check manifests as a failure in the application's authorization mechanisms, where the system does not properly verify user permissions before exposing module listings to unauthenticated or insufficiently privileged individuals. This type of vulnerability falls under CWE-285 which specifically addresses improper authorization issues in software systems and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1069.101 which covers credential access through enumeration of system components.
The technical implementation of this flaw typically occurs when the application's frontend code retrieves module information without adequate server-side validation of user credentials or role-based access controls. Attackers can exploit this weakness by directly accessing endpoints or manipulating API calls that should be restricted to authorized personnel only, thereby gaining knowledge about the application's architecture and available functionalities. The vulnerability often stems from inadequate input validation where the system assumes all users have equal access rights or fails to properly implement role-based access control (RBAC) mechanisms.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure as it provides attackers with valuable reconnaissance data that can be used for subsequent exploitation attempts. An attacker who discovers module listings can identify potential attack vectors, understand the application's structure, and potentially locate other vulnerable components or services within the system. This enumeration capability enables more sophisticated attacks such as privilege escalation attempts, where knowledge of available modules helps attackers identify which components might have additional security weaknesses. The vulnerability also exposes the application's internal organization and may reveal sensitive information about business processes or data handling procedures.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require comprehensive implementation of proper access control measures including robust authentication mechanisms, role-based access controls, and server-side validation of all user requests. Organizations should implement principle of least privilege where users only receive access to modules necessary for their specific roles within the application. Regular security testing including penetration testing and code reviews should be conducted to identify similar authorization flaws across the application's functionality. The implementation of proper logging and monitoring mechanisms can help detect unauthorized access attempts to module listings, while automated security scanning tools can identify such issues during development and deployment phases. Additionally, following secure coding practices that enforce access control checks at every point where sensitive data or functionality is exposed will significantly reduce the risk of similar vulnerabilities occurring in the future.