CVE-2026-40384: An improper validation of the search parameter of the com_media files API endpoint leads to a path traversal v

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HIGH 7.5REMOTEUPGRADE

CVE-2026-40384 is a high-severity flaw (CVSS 7.5) affecting joomla\!. Below: why it ranks where it does, which versions are affected, what to do, and the exact commands.

An improper validation of the search parameter of the com_media files API endpoint leads to a path traversal vulnerability.

Why this priority

High severity
Remotely exploitable, no login, no user action

A fixed release or distro patch exists.

Risk facts

CVSS score	7.5 (High)
Attack vector	Network (remote)
Attack complexity	Low
Privileges needed	None
User interaction	None
EPSS exploit chance	0.5% (top 56%)
CISA exploited list	No
Weakness	CWE-22
Published	2026-05-26
Last modified	2026-07-24

Publisher (CNA): Joomla! Project · Vendor: joomla

Last updated 2026-07-24 · Sources: CVE Program, NVD, CISA KEV, EPSS and vendor advisories · How we score

Am I affected?

Timeline

2026-05-26 17:16 UTCPublished CVE record published
2026-07-24 11:10 UTCUpdated Record last modified

joomla joomla\! UPGRADE

Affected: >= 4.0.0 and < 5.4.6 · >= 6.0.0 and < 6.1.1

Fixed in: 5.4.6, 6.1.1

Safe to downgrade to: a release before 4.0.0

1. Check installed version

apt-cache policy joomla || rpm -q joomla || joomla --version

2. UPGRADE to 5.4.6 (Debian / Ubuntu)

sudo apt update && sudo apt install --only-upgrade joomla

2. UPGRADE (RHEL / Amazon Linux / Fedora)

sudo dnf upgrade joomla

Note

Distros often backport fixes without changing the version number. Confirm with the distro advisory or changelog.

3. If no update is available yet, DOWNGRADE to a release before 4.0.0 (Debian / Ubuntu)

apt-cache madison joomla sudo apt install joomla=<VERSION_BEFORE_4.0.0> sudo apt-mark hold joomla

3. If no update is available yet, DOWNGRADE (RHEL / Amazon Linux / Fedora)

dnf --showduplicates list joomla sudo dnf downgrade joomla-<VERSION_BEFORE_4.0.0> sudo dnf versionlock add joomla

Downgrade risk

Downgrading can break dependent software and may reopen older bugs. Read the distro advisory first and test on a non-production host.

After downgrade

Restart the service, and keep the package held until a fixed release ships.

Verify at the official source NVD · CVE Program · Report a problem with this page
Scores and fixes here are computed automatically from those and other public sources. Confirm with the vendor advisory before changing production systems.

Quick answers

How do I fix CVE-2026-40384?

joomla\!: upgrade to 5.4.6, 6.1.1. Exact commands for each OS are on this page.

Is CVE-2026-40384 being exploited?

CVE-2026-40384 is not on the CISA Known Exploited Vulnerabilities list at the time of the last update. Check again, as this can change.

What does CVE-2026-40384 affect?

CVE-2026-40384 affects joomla\!. Severity is high (CVSS 7.5). An improper validation of the search parameter of the com_media files API endpoint leads to a path traversal vulnerability.

How urgent is CVE-2026-40384?

Priority 42/100. High severity; Remotely exploitable, no login, no user action

Software pages

Joomla vulnerabilities

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References

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