Joomla: arbitrary file deletion
Joomla
Arbitrary file deletion in the Joomla component. Threat level: High (CVSS 8.3).
Who is affected
This vulnerability affects: Joomla. If you use this component on your site, check the version and update it as soon as possible.
How dangerous
Rating: High, CVSS 8.3 out of 10. It is worth acting before the flaw is exploited.
What this flaw is
The flaw allows deletion of files the attacker should not be able to touch. In WordPress, deleting the right file is sometimes used to bypass install-time protections.
It can lead to a site outage and, in the right conditions, to a takeover through a repeated, controlled reinstall.
Score breakdown (CVSS vector)
What the CVSS 8.3 rating means in practice:
- The attack can be carried out remotely, over the internet.
- Requires an account with elevated privileges.
- Requires no action from the victim.
Weakness class: CWE-22.
What to do
- Update the vulnerable component (Joomla) to the latest version.
- If a patch is not out yet, temporarily disable the vulnerable element.
- Check whether the site has already been attacked: unusual files, new administrator accounts, redirects.
- Make a backup before you start making changes.
Does this flaw affect your site?
We will run a free audit: we check versions, plugins, and configuration, and tell you plainly whether you are safe.
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