CVE-2020-35611 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

An issue was discovered in Joomla! 2.5.0 through 3.9.22 where the global configuration page exposes secrets in the HTML output, revealing current values.

Understanding CVE-2020-35611

This CVE involves an information disclosure vulnerability in Joomla! CMS versions 2.5.0 through 3.9.22.

What is CVE-2020-35611?

The vulnerability in Joomla! CMS versions 2.5.0 through 3.9.22 allows secrets to be exposed in the HTML output on the global configuration page, potentially disclosing sensitive information.

The Impact of CVE-2020-35611

The disclosure of secrets in the global configuration page could lead to unauthorized access to sensitive information, compromising the security and confidentiality of the system.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-35611

This section provides more technical insights into the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The issue in Joomla! CMS versions 2.5.0 through 3.9.22 exposes secrets in the HTML output of the global configuration page, revealing current values.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Joomla! CMS
Vendor: Joomla! Project
Versions Affected: 2.5.0-3.9.22

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability can be exploited by accessing the global configuration page and inspecting the HTML source to reveal the secrets embedded in the output.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2020-35611, follow these mitigation steps:

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Joomla! CMS to a patched version that addresses the vulnerability.
Avoid exposing sensitive information in the global configuration settings.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly monitor and audit the configuration settings for any unintended exposure of secrets.
Implement access controls to restrict unauthorized access to sensitive information.

Patching and Updates

Apply security patches provided by Joomla! Project promptly to mitigate the vulnerability and enhance system security.