CVE-2005-4814 in Segue CMS
Summary
by MITRE
Unrestricted file upload vulnerability in Segue CMS before 1.3.6, when the Apache HTTP Server handles .phtml files with the PHP interpreter, allows remote attackers to upload and execute arbitrary PHP code by placing .phtml files in the userfiles/ directory.
If you want to get best quality of vulnerability data, you may have to visit VulDB.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/04/2017
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2005-4814 represents a critical unrestricted file upload flaw within Segue CMS versions prior to 1.3.6. This security weakness specifically manifests when the Apache HTTP Server processes .phtml files through the PHP interpreter, creating a pathway for remote attackers to execute malicious code on the affected system. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and access controls within the content management system's file upload functionality, particularly concerning the userfiles/ directory where uploaded content is stored.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through the manipulation of file upload mechanisms that fail to properly validate file extensions or content types. When .phtml files are uploaded to the userfiles/ directory, the Apache server's configuration allows these files to be processed by the PHP interpreter rather than being treated as static content. This misconfiguration creates an execution environment where attacker-controlled PHP code can be interpreted and executed with the privileges of the web server process. The flaw operates at the intersection of improper input validation and insecure file handling practices, making it particularly dangerous for web applications that rely on user-uploaded content.
The operational impact of CVE-2005-4814 extends beyond simple code execution to encompass complete system compromise and potential data breaches. Attackers can upload malicious PHP scripts that may perform various malicious activities including but not limited to data exfiltration, privilege escalation, backdoor installation, and lateral movement within the network. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-434, which specifically addresses "Unrestricted Upload of File with Dangerous Type," and demonstrates how inadequate file type validation can lead to remote code execution. This flaw directly violates security principles outlined in the OWASP Top Ten, particularly the category of "Insecure File Upload" that has been consistently identified as a critical threat to web application security.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate implementation of multiple security controls to address both the immediate threat and prevent similar issues in the future. Organizations should implement strict file type validation that rejects executable file extensions such as .phtml, .php, .asp, and other scripting formats during the upload process. The recommended approach includes configuring the Apache server to disable PHP interpretation for files uploaded to user directories, implementing proper file extension checks, and enforcing mandatory file content verification. Additionally, the Segue CMS should be upgraded to version 1.3.6 or later where the vulnerability has been patched. Security measures should also include restricting write permissions to the userfiles/ directory, implementing proper access controls, and establishing monitoring mechanisms to detect unauthorized file uploads. These mitigations align with ATT&CK technique T1190, which covers "Exploit Public-Facing Application," and emphasize the importance of defense-in-depth strategies to prevent exploitation of such vulnerabilities. The vulnerability serves as a critical reminder of the importance of proper input validation and secure file handling practices in web application development, particularly when dealing with user-generated content that can be processed by interpreters.