CVE-2011-4941: Piwik (Matomo) Arbitrary Code Execution Vulnerability
Summary
CVE-2011-4941: Piwik (now Matomo) Vulnerable to Arbitrary Code Execution. Affects piwik/piwik versions >= 1.2, < 1.5. Fixed in 1.5. How to fix ↓
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Background
Piwik, now known as Matomo, is an open-source web analytics platform that enables users to track and analyze their website traffic. It provides features such as real-time data reporting, customizable dashboards, and user privacy protection. However, versions 1.2 through 1.4 of Piwik are vulnerable to a serious security flaw that allows remote attackers with view permissions to execute arbitrary code, potentially compromising the integrity of the application and the data it processes.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability arises from unspecified attack vectors that allow remote attackers with the view permission to execute arbitrary code within the Piwik application. This could lead to unauthorized access, data manipulation, or complete system compromise. The flaw is classified under CWE-269, which pertains to improper privilege management, indicating that the application does not adequately restrict access to sensitive functionalities.
How To Fix
Minimum fixed version
1.5
This is the first release that contains the fix.
composer require piwik/piwik:1.5Tip — Not sure which version your app runs? Vulert can match this fix to it. Scan free →
Workaround
As a temporary measure, you can restrict access to the Piwik application by limiting the view permissions for users until the update is applied. Additionally, consider implementing web application firewalls or intrusion detection systems to monitor and block suspicious activities.
Conclusion
The CVE-2011-4941 vulnerability in Piwik (Matomo) poses a significant risk to users of versions 1.2 to 1.4. It is crucial to update to version 1.5 or later to mitigate this risk. Users should also consider using tools like Vulert to monitor for vulnerabilities in their applications.
See every vulnerability recorded for piwik/piwik →
FAQ
CVE-2011-4941 is a security vulnerability in Piwik (Matomo) that allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code due to improper privilege management.
Versions 1.2 through 1.4 of Piwik are affected by this vulnerability.
You can use Vulert's playground at Vulert Scanner to check if your application is affected by this vulnerability without needing to sign up.
If exploited, this vulnerability can lead to unauthorized access, data manipulation, or complete system compromise, affecting the integrity of your web analytics data.
If immediate updates are not possible, restrict user permissions and monitor your application for any suspicious activities as a temporary workaround.
