CVE-2020-11889 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

An issue was discovered in Joomla! before 3.9.17. Incorrect ACL checks in the access level section of com_users allow the unauthorized deletion of usergroups.

Understanding CVE-2020-11889

This CVE identifies a vulnerability in Joomla! that could lead to unauthorized deletion of usergroups due to incorrect ACL checks.

What is CVE-2020-11889?

The vulnerability in Joomla! before version 3.9.17 allows attackers to delete usergroups without proper authorization, potentially compromising user management security.

The Impact of CVE-2020-11889

The vulnerability could result in unauthorized users deleting usergroups, leading to potential security breaches and disruptions in user management.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-11889

This section provides technical insights into the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The issue arises from incorrect ACL checks in the access level section of com_users in Joomla!, enabling unauthorized deletion of usergroups.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Joomla!
Versions affected: Before 3.9.17

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by bypassing the access control checks in the usergroup deletion function, allowing them to delete usergroups without proper authorization.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2020-11889 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Joomla! to version 3.9.17 or later to mitigate the vulnerability.
Monitor usergroup changes and access control settings for any unauthorized modifications.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly review and update access control configurations to prevent unauthorized actions.
Conduct security audits to identify and address any potential vulnerabilities in user management.

Patching and Updates

Apply patches and updates provided by Joomla! promptly to address security vulnerabilities and enhance system protection.