CVE-2021-23131:Missing input validation in Joomla! template manager allows for potential security vulnerabilities.

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Description Preview

CVE-2021-23131 affects Joomla! versions 3.2.0 through 3.9.24. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation within the template manager component, which could potentially allow attackers to perform unauthorized actions. This is classified as CWE-20 (Improper Input Validation), indicating that the application does not properly validate input, which can lead to altered control flow, arbitrary control of resources, or other unexpected behaviors.

Overview

The vulnerability exists in the template manager component of Joomla! CMS versions 3.2.0 through 3.9.24. The template manager is responsible for handling and managing site templates, which control the appearance and layout of a Joomla! website. Due to missing input validation, malicious actors could potentially inject unexpected data that might be processed by the application in an unsafe manner. This could lead to various security issues including, but not limited to, unauthorized access to files, execution of arbitrary code, or other compromises of the affected system.

Remediation

Users should update to Joomla! version 3.9.25 or later, which contains patches for this vulnerability. If immediate updating is not possible, administrators should consider:

  1. Limiting access to the template manager to only trusted administrators
  2. Implementing additional security layers such as Web Application Firewalls
  3. Regularly monitoring system logs for suspicious activities
  4. Following the principle of least privilege for all user accounts with administrative access

References

  1. Joomla! Security Centre Advisory: https://developer.joomla.org/security-centre/845-20210305-core-input-validation-within-the-template-manager.html
  2. Common Weakness Enumeration (CWE-20): https://cwe.mitre.org/data/definitions/20.html
  3. MITRE CVE Entry: https://cve.mitre.org/cgi-bin/cvename.cgi?name=CVE-2021-23131

Industry ExposureMost to least
This section illustrates the prevalence of a specific Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVE) across various industries based on customer reports. The ranking displays industries from the most to least affected by this particular vulnerability, offering valuable insight into where this CVE has been most frequently observed. This information can help organizations within these sectors prioritize their security efforts, understand their relative risk exposure compared to their peers, and focus remediation strategies where they are most needed. By understanding the industry-specific impact, organizations can make more informed decisions regarding patching, resource allocation, and overall risk management related to this CVE.

  1. Manufacturing
    Manufacturing
  2. Accommodation & Food Services
    Accommodation & Food Services
  3. Administrative, Support, Waste Management & Remediation Services
    Administrative, Support, Waste Management & Remediation Services
  4. Agriculture, Forestry Fishing & Hunting
    Agriculture, Forestry Fishing & Hunting
  5. Arts, Entertainment & Recreation
    Arts, Entertainment & Recreation
  6. Construction
    Construction
  7. Educational Services
    Educational Services
  8. Finance and Insurance
    Finance and Insurance
  9. Health Care & Social Assistance
    Health Care & Social Assistance
  10. Information
    Information
  11. Management of Companies & Enterprises
    Management of Companies & Enterprises
  12. Mining
    Mining
  13. Other Services (except Public Administration)
    Other Services (except Public Administration)
  14. Professional, Scientific, & Technical Services
    Professional, Scientific, & Technical Services
  15. Public Administration
    Public Administration
  16. Real Estate Rental & Leasing
    Real Estate Rental & Leasing
  17. Retail Trade
    Retail Trade
  18. Transportation & Warehousing
    Transportation & Warehousing
  19. Utilities
    Utilities
  20. Wholesale Trade
    Wholesale Trade

Focus on What Matters

  1. See Everything.
  2. Identify True Risk.
  3. Proactively Mitigate Threats.

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