CVE-2002-1841 in Nola
Summary
by MITRE
The document management module in NOLA 1.1.1 and 1.1.2 does not restrict the types of files that are uploaded, which allows remote attackers to upload and execute arbitrary PHP files with extensions such as .php4.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/28/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2002-1841 affects the document management module within NOLA versions 1.1.1 and 1.1.2, representing a critical security flaw that permits unauthorized file uploads with potentially malicious content. This issue falls under the category of insecure file upload vulnerabilities, which are commonly exploited by attackers to gain remote code execution capabilities on affected systems. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and sanitization mechanisms within the document management functionality, creating an attack vector where malicious actors can bypass intended security controls.
The technical flaw manifests in the lack of proper file type restriction within the upload process, allowing attackers to upload PHP files with extensions such as .php4 which are executable within web server environments. This weakness directly violates the principle of least privilege and input validation, as the system fails to properly validate file extensions, content types, or file signatures before storing uploaded files. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because PHP files can execute server-side code, enabling attackers to perform arbitrary commands on the target system, potentially leading to complete system compromise. This flaw aligns with CWE-434 which specifically addresses insecure file upload vulnerabilities where applications allow file uploads without proper validation of file types or content.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized file uploads, as it provides attackers with a pathway for persistent access and potential privilege escalation within the affected environment. Remote attackers can leverage this vulnerability to deploy web shells, backdoors, or other malicious payloads that can remain undetected for extended periods. The consequences include potential data breaches, system compromise, and unauthorized access to sensitive information stored within the NOLA application. This vulnerability can be exploited through standard web browser interactions, requiring no special tools or privileges beyond basic network access to the vulnerable web application.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2002-1841 should focus on implementing robust input validation and file type restrictions within the document management module. Organizations should enforce strict file extension filtering, reject executable file types, and implement proper file content verification mechanisms. The recommended approach includes validating file types against a whitelist of approved extensions, implementing proper file content checking, and ensuring uploaded files are stored outside the web root directory. Additionally, the system should employ proper access controls and file permissions to prevent execution of uploaded files. This vulnerability demonstrates the importance of following secure coding practices and implementing defense-in-depth strategies as outlined in the MITRE ATT&CK framework, particularly focusing on the execution and persistence tactics that attackers can leverage through insecure file upload mechanisms. Regular security assessments and code reviews should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities within the application's codebase.