CVE-2020-24597 Scanner

Joomla is a widely used content management system (CMS) that empowers users to build websites and online applications seamlessly. It serves various purposes, including small business websites, corporate portals, and e-commerce platforms. Joomla’s flexibility, ease of use, and extensive extension directory make it a preferred choice for developers and site owners. The com_media component in Joomla allows users to manage media files such as images and videos efficiently. It's crucial for managing content on sites with rich media elements, making it an integral part of website maintenance. However, vulnerabilities in components like com_media can pose significant threats if not properly managed.

The directory traversal vulnerability allows attackers to gain unauthorized access to directories and files stored outside the webroot directory. Such vulnerabilities arise due to insufficient input validation in file path parameters in web applications. Attackers exploit this by providing specially crafted input to navigate the file system hierarchy. By exploiting directory traversal, malicious actors can access sensitive configuration files and other critical data that should remain inaccessible. In Joomla com_media, this vulnerability arises from flaws in path handling mechanisms, making it susceptible to traversal attacks. Leaving such vulnerabilities unpatched could lead to information disclosure and unauthorized access to server files.

Technically, the vulnerability exists due to improper input validation in the file and image path parameters in the Joomla com_media component. The vulnerable endpoints leverage HTTP requests via GET and POST methods to manage file paths. Attackers can potentially exploit this by injecting path traversal sequences (e.g., ../) into parameters such as file_path or image_path. These sequences allow unauthorized access to files and directories outside the intended scope within the server. Successful exploitation involves bypassing weak authentication mechanisms and utilizing manipulated requests to deliver malicious payloads. The vulnerability permits access to restricted directories, facilitating potential data exfiltration or system compromise.

Exploiting this vulnerability can lead to several detrimental effects. Attackers may gain unauthorized access to sensitive server files, aiding in data breaches and system manipulation. It exposes the risk of configuration file disclosures, where sensitive information like database credentials may be compromised. Attackers can plant malicious files in unauthorized directories, possibly leading to remote code execution or service disruption. This could also pave the way for further exploits through privilege escalation or additional vulnerability exploitation. Organizations must mitigate these risks to safeguard their web infrastructure and protect sensitive data from unauthorized access.

REFERENCES

• https://developer.joomla.org/security-centre/827-20200803-core-directory-traversal-in-com-media.html
• https://github.com/HoangKien1020/CVE-2020-24597