Joomla! com_fabrik Local File Inclusion Scanner

Joomla! is a popular open-source content management system (CMS) used for creating and managing websites. It is widely used by businesses, educational institutions, and personal bloggers due to its versatility and ease of use. The com_fabrik extension for Joomla! facilitates the creation of custom applications and data management solutions without requiring extensive coding knowledge. This extension is mainly used by web developers and site administrators who need to handle custom data processing within their Joomla! sites. Its popularity stems from the ability to extend Joomla! beyond basic content management to more complex data manipulation tasks, making it a tool of choice for dynamic content needs. However, like all software, it can be susceptible to vulnerabilities if not maintained properly.

Local File Inclusion (LFI) is a type of vulnerability that occurs when a web application allows users to submit input into files without proper validation and sanitization. This can lead attackers to access sensitive files and directories on the server where the application is hosted. In the context of Joomla! com_fabrik, exploitation of this vulnerability allows unauthorized users to read files from the server, including configuration and critical system files. LFI vulnerabilities can lead to severe breaches, including information disclosure and full server compromise. Proper validation of file paths and strict access controls are essential to prevent such vulnerabilities from being exploited. This specific vulnerability can severely impact confidentiality due to unrestricted access to sensitive system files.

The Local File Inclusion vulnerability in Joomla! com_fabrik primarily stems from inadequate input validation in the file path parameters. Affected endpoints allow users to include files specified in their requests, potentially leading to malicious file execution. By manipulating path parameters, attackers can navigate directories outside the intended scope and access protected files. The vulnerability is triggered when the application does not sanitize user input that controls file paths, enabling directory traversal attacks. Crafting a URL that includes relevant path traversal syntax can exploit the vulnerability, allowing unauthorized file access. This vulnerability can be tested by checking the application's HTTP responses for unauthorized file content inclusion.

If exploited, the Local File Inclusion vulnerability can have severe consequences. Attackers may gain unauthorized access to sensitive server information, such as configuration files containing database credentials and user authentication details. This information could be leveraged for further attacks, including database manipulation or complete server access. The ability to read sensitive file contents may also facilitate other attacks like privilege escalation, allowing attackers to gain higher access privileges. Unauthorized exposure of the application structure and data can lead to significant data breaches and privacy infringements. It is essential to address this vulnerability promptly to mitigate potential exploitation and protect sensitive information.

REFERENCES

• https://www.exploit-db.com/exploits/48263