CVE-2006-1485 in Greymatter
Summary
by MITRE
gm-upload.cgi in Greymatter 1.3.1 allows remote authenticated users with upload privileges to execute arbitrary programs by uploading files to locations within the web root. NOTE: the provenance of this information is unknown; the details are obtained solely from third party information.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/21/2018
The vulnerability described in CVE-2006-1485 represents a critical file upload flaw in Greymatter 1.3.1 content management system that enables authenticated users with upload privileges to escalate their access and execute arbitrary code on the target system. This issue specifically affects the gm-upload.cgi component which handles file uploads within the web root directory structure. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and improper file handling mechanisms that fail to properly sanitize or restrict the types of files that can be uploaded to the server. Attackers exploiting this weakness can leverage their authenticated access to upload malicious scripts or executables directly into the web server's document root, thereby bypassing normal security controls and gaining unauthorized program execution capabilities. The attack vector requires only authenticated access with upload permissions, making it particularly dangerous as it can be exploited by insiders or compromised accounts with limited privileges.
This vulnerability directly maps to CWE-434, which describes "Unrestricted Upload of File with Dangerous Type," a well-documented weakness in software applications that fail to properly validate file types during upload processes. The flaw creates a path for privilege escalation and remote code execution, allowing attackers to potentially gain full control over the affected web server. The operational impact extends beyond simple file upload capabilities as it provides attackers with a persistent backdoor mechanism for maintaining access to the compromised system. The vulnerability's exploitation requires minimal technical expertise since it leverages existing upload functionality rather than requiring complex attack chains or additional vulnerabilities. The fact that the upload process occurs within the web root directory means that uploaded files can be executed directly by the web server, eliminating the need for additional exploitation steps.
The security implications of this vulnerability are severe and align with ATT&CK technique T1505.003, which covers "Server Software Component: Web Shell," as attackers can establish persistent access through malicious file uploads. Organizations running Greymatter 1.3.1 are at significant risk of unauthorized access, data compromise, and potential lateral movement within their network infrastructure. The vulnerability demonstrates a fundamental flaw in the application's security architecture where proper input validation and file type restrictions are missing. Attackers can upload various file types including but not limited to shell scripts, web shells, or malicious executables that can be triggered through web requests. The attack scenario typically involves an authenticated user uploading a malicious payload that gets executed when accessed through the web server, potentially leading to complete system compromise. This type of vulnerability is particularly concerning in environments where privileged accounts are compromised or where insider threats exist.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2006-1485 should focus on implementing robust file validation mechanisms, restricting upload capabilities to only necessary file types, and ensuring proper file permissions are enforced. Organizations should immediately upgrade to a patched version of Greymatter or implement compensating controls such as restricting upload directories outside the web root, implementing strict file type filtering, and conducting regular security audits of upload functionality. The solution architecture should include mandatory file extension validation, content type checks, and automatic file analysis to prevent execution of malicious uploads. Additionally, implementing web application firewalls and monitoring for unusual upload patterns can help detect and prevent exploitation attempts. Regular security assessments should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other applications and systems within the organization's attack surface.