CVE-2007-0082 in IMGallery
Summary
by MITRE
users_adm/start1.php in IMGallery 2.5 and earlier does not properly handle files with multiple extensions, which allows remote authenticated users to upload and execute arbitrary PHP scripts.
Be aware that VulDB is the high quality source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/15/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-0082 affects IMGallery version 2.5 and earlier, specifically targeting the users_adm/start1.php component. This flaw represents a classic file upload security issue that exploits improper file extension validation mechanisms within the application's administrative interface. The vulnerability occurs when the system fails to adequately sanitize file names containing multiple extensions, allowing malicious users to bypass security controls designed to prevent execution of potentially harmful scripts.
The technical root cause of this vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and sanitization practices within the file upload functionality. When users attempt to upload files through the administrative interface, the system does not properly parse or validate filenames that contain multiple extensions such as image.jpg.php or document.doc.php. This occurs because the application likely performs simple string matching or basic extension checks rather than implementing comprehensive file type verification. The flaw falls under the category of CWE-434, which specifically addresses "Unrestricted Upload of File with Dangerous Type," and represents a critical weakness in the application's security architecture.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability creates a severe risk for systems running affected versions of IMGallery. Authenticated attackers with administrative privileges can leverage this weakness to upload malicious PHP scripts that will execute within the web server context. The implications extend beyond simple code execution, as these scripts could be used to establish persistent backdoors, exfiltrate sensitive data, or perform further attacks against the internal network. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it requires only authenticated access, meaning that an attacker who has obtained legitimate administrative credentials can immediately exploit this weakness without additional reconnaissance or privilege escalation efforts.
The attack vector for this vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190, which covers "Exploit Public-Facing Application," and T1059, which addresses "Command and Scripting Interpreter." Attackers typically exploit such vulnerabilities by crafting malicious files with seemingly innocuous extensions that actually contain executable PHP code. The impact of successful exploitation includes complete system compromise, data theft, and potential lateral movement within the network infrastructure. Organizations using vulnerable versions of IMGallery face significant exposure since the flaw allows for arbitrary code execution with the privileges of the web server process.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2007-0082 should focus on implementing robust file validation mechanisms and restricting file upload capabilities where possible. The most effective immediate solution involves upgrading to a patched version of IMGallery that properly validates file extensions and implements comprehensive file type checking. Organizations should also implement multiple layers of defense including proper file extension validation, content type checking, and the use of unique file names to prevent overwriting existing files. Additionally, the principle of least privilege should be enforced by restricting upload capabilities to only those users who absolutely require such functionality, while implementing proper access controls and monitoring for suspicious upload activities. Security teams should also consider implementing web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems to monitor for exploitation attempts targeting this specific vulnerability.