CVE-2005-1604 in PHP Advanced Transfer Manager
Summary
by MITRE
PHP Advanced Transfer Manager (phpATM) 1.21 allows remote attackers to upload arbitrary files via filenames containing multiple file extensions, as demonstrated using a filename ending in "php.ns", which allows execution of arbitrary PHP code.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/02/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2005-1604 affects PHP Advanced Transfer Manager version 1.21, a web-based file upload system designed to facilitate file transfers within web applications. This critical security flaw stems from inadequate input validation and file extension handling mechanisms within the application's file upload functionality. The vulnerability represents a classic example of insecure file upload validation that can be exploited to gain unauthorized code execution privileges on the target system. Attackers can leverage this weakness by crafting malicious filenames that appear legitimate but contain embedded executable components, effectively bypassing security measures intended to prevent the upload of dangerous file types.
The technical exploitation mechanism relies on the application's failure to properly validate file extensions during the upload process. Specifically, when a filename ending in "php.ns" is submitted, the system incorrectly processes this as a valid file extension rather than recognizing it as a potential threat. This misconfiguration occurs because the application performs basic string matching against a whitelist of allowed extensions without implementing proper sanitization or comprehensive validation techniques. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous as it allows attackers to upload PHP files that can be executed directly on the web server, providing them with remote code execution capabilities. This flaw directly relates to CWE-434, which describes the improper restriction of file uploads, and represents a common pattern in web application security vulnerabilities where insufficient input validation leads to arbitrary code execution.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends far beyond simple unauthorized file uploads, as it provides attackers with complete control over the affected web server. Once successfully exploited, attackers can execute arbitrary PHP code, potentially leading to full system compromise, data exfiltration, and persistent access to the compromised environment. The vulnerability is particularly concerning in environments where phpATM is used for file management, as it can be leveraged to establish backdoors, install malware, or perform other malicious activities without detection. The attack surface is broad since this vulnerability can be exploited through standard web interfaces, making it accessible to attackers with minimal technical expertise. Organizations using this software are at risk of having their web applications compromised, potentially leading to service disruption, data breaches, and regulatory compliance violations.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate implementation of comprehensive file upload validation controls. System administrators should implement strict file extension filtering that validates not only the final extension but also examines the entire filename for suspicious patterns and multiple extensions. The recommended approach involves implementing a denylist of dangerous file extensions combined with a strict allowlist of permitted extensions, ensuring that all uploaded files are properly sanitized before processing. Additionally, uploaded files should be stored in a location separate from the web root directory, and proper file permissions should be enforced to prevent direct execution of uploaded content. Organizations should also consider implementing additional security measures such as content type checking, file signature verification, and mandatory file scanning with antivirus software. The remediation process should include immediate patching of the phpATM application to version 1.22 or later, which addresses this specific vulnerability through enhanced input validation and improved file extension handling mechanisms. This vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper input validation and secure coding practices in web application development, aligning with ATT&CK technique T1190 for Exploit Public-Facing Application and T1059 for Command and Scripting Interpreter, which are commonly used by adversaries to achieve code execution in web environments.