CVE-2026-76611 in Zoo Extension
Summary
by MITRE • 08/21/2026
Joomla Extension - yootheme.com - Unauthenticated arbitrary directory listing via the Gallery element in Zoo < 4.1.66.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/21/2026
The vulnerability identified involves a critical security flaw within the YOOtheme Zoo extension for Joomla, specifically affecting versions prior to 4.1.66. This component is widely used by web developers and site administrators to create dynamic content structures, but it contains an unauthenticated arbitrary directory listing weakness located in its Gallery element functionality. The core issue stems from insufficient input validation and access control mechanisms when handling file path parameters passed through the gallery interface. An attacker who does not require any form of authentication can exploit this flaw by crafting specific HTTP requests that manipulate these parameters to traverse directories beyond their intended scope. This allows for the enumeration of files and folders on the underlying server filesystem, potentially exposing sensitive configuration files, source code, or other private data stored in accessible locations relative to the web root.
From a technical perspective, this vulnerability is classified under CWE-200 as an Information Exposure vulnerability, specifically falling into the subcategory of Unintended Information Disclosure through Directory Traversal. The lack of proper sanitization on user-supplied input allows for path manipulation attacks where directory traversal sequences are injected to bypass security restrictions designed to limit file access to specific directories. This aligns with MITRE ATT&CK technique T1083, which covers File and Directory Discovery, a common initial reconnaissance step in cyberattacks used to map out the target environment before proceeding to more destructive actions such as data exfiltration or further exploitation of other vulnerabilities within exposed files.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is significant because it provides attackers with detailed insights into the server's directory structure without needing valid credentials. This information can be leveraged to identify backup files, configuration scripts containing database passwords or API keys, and proprietary source code that may contain additional weaknesses. In many cases, exposure of these internal structures facilitates subsequent attacks such as remote code execution if sensitive executable files are found in writable directories, or credential theft through the discovery of unprotected administrative panels or config files. The unauthenticated nature of this exploit means it can be automated by malicious actors scanning large portions of the internet for vulnerable instances, increasing the likelihood of successful compromise even on sites with strong password policies elsewhere.
To mitigate this risk, immediate action is required to update the YOOtheme Zoo extension to version 4.1.66 or later, where these input validation and access control issues have been addressed by the developers. Administrators should verify their current installation versions through the Joomla administration panel and apply updates promptly via the built-in updater or manual replacement of affected files from official sources. In addition to updating software, it is advisable to implement web application firewall rules that detect and block common directory traversal patterns in HTTP requests. Regular security audits and penetration testing can help identify similar misconfigurations across other extensions installed on the Joomla platform, ensuring a holistic approach to securing the content management system against information disclosure threats.