CVE-2006-4675 in DokuWiki
Summary
by MITRE
Unrestricted file upload vulnerability in lib/exe/media.php in DokuWiki before 2006-03-09c allows remote attackers to upload executable files into the data/media folder via unspecified vectors.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/08/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2006-4675 represents a critical security flaw in DokuWiki versions prior to 2006-03-09c, specifically within the file upload functionality located in lib/exe/media.php. This unrestricted file upload vulnerability creates a significant attack surface that enables remote adversaries to bypass normal file validation mechanisms and deposit potentially malicious executables directly into the data/media directory. The flaw stems from inadequate input sanitization and validation processes that fail to properly restrict file types, allowing attackers to upload files with executable extensions or scripts that could compromise the web server hosting the wiki instance.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability resides in the media.php script which handles file uploads without proper content type checking or file extension validation. Attackers can exploit this weakness by crafting specially prepared file uploads that circumvent the intended security controls, potentially resulting in the execution of arbitrary code on the target server. The affected component operates within the web application's media management system, where users typically upload images, documents, and other media files. However, the lack of proper validation allows attackers to upload files with extensions such as .php, .asp, .jsp, or other executable formats that can be executed by the web server when accessed through the web browser.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability creates a severe risk of remote code execution and potential system compromise. Successful exploitation could enable attackers to establish persistent backdoors, execute malicious commands, or gain unauthorized access to the underlying server infrastructure. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it allows attackers to upload files directly to the data/media folder, which is typically accessible via web requests, making it possible to execute uploaded scripts immediately upon access. This scenario could lead to complete system compromise, data exfiltration, or use as a foothold for further attacks within the network infrastructure.
The vulnerability maps to CWE-434, which specifically addresses "Unrestricted Upload of File with Dangerous Type," and aligns with several ATT&CK techniques including T1190 for Exploit Public-Facing Application and T1059 for Command and Scripting Interpreter. Organizations running affected DokuWiki versions should immediately implement mitigations including restricting file upload capabilities, implementing strict file type validation, and ensuring proper file permissions on the media directory. Additional defensive measures should include monitoring for suspicious file upload activities, implementing web application firewalls, and conducting regular security assessments to identify similar vulnerabilities in other components of the web application stack. The remediation process requires updating to DokuWiki version 2006-03-09c or later, which includes proper file validation mechanisms that prevent execution of malicious files uploaded through the media management interface.