CVE-2007-0764 in F3Site
Summary
by MITRE
Unrestricted file upload vulnerability in F3Site 2.1 and earlier allows remote authenticated administrators to upload and execute arbitrary PHP scripts via GIF86 header in a file in the uplf parameter, which can be later accessed via a relative pathname in the dir parameter in adm.php.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/21/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-0764 represents a critical unrestricted file upload flaw in F3Site version 2.1 and earlier systems. This security weakness specifically targets authenticated administrator accounts and creates a pathway for remote code execution through improper input validation. The vulnerability manifests when administrators attempt to upload files through the uplf parameter in the adm.php interface, where the system fails to adequately validate file types and content. The attack vector exploits the lack of proper file extension and content validation by allowing malicious actors to embed PHP code within what appears to be a legitimate GIF file, leveraging the GIF86 header format as a delivery mechanism.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from insufficient sanitization of user-supplied file data within the application's file upload functionality. When a file is submitted through the uplf parameter, the system does not properly verify that the uploaded file conforms to expected file type standards or contains malicious code within its payload. The GIF86 header format provides a legitimate method for embedding executable code within image files, allowing attackers to bypass standard security measures that might otherwise detect PHP script uploads. This particular attack method exploits the fact that many web applications do not perform thorough content analysis of uploaded files, relying instead on file extension checks that can be easily circumvented.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized file uploads, creating a severe threat to system integrity and availability. Once an attacker successfully uploads a malicious PHP script, they gain the ability to execute arbitrary commands on the affected server, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The relative pathname access through the dir parameter in adm.php allows attackers to execute their uploaded scripts without requiring additional authentication or complex exploitation techniques. This vulnerability enables attackers to establish persistent access, escalate privileges, and potentially use the compromised system as a launch point for further attacks within the network infrastructure. The implications include data theft, service disruption, and potential lateral movement to other systems within the organization's attack surface.
Organizations affected by this vulnerability should implement immediate mitigations including comprehensive input validation and sanitization of all file uploads, proper file type verification, and content analysis of uploaded files. The implementation of strict file extension whitelisting combined with binary content verification can prevent similar attacks from succeeding. Additionally, administrators should ensure that uploaded files are stored outside the web root directory and that proper access controls are implemented to prevent direct execution of uploaded content. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-434 Unrestricted Upload of File with Dangerous Type, which specifically addresses the risks associated with unrestricted file uploads. The attack pattern corresponds to techniques described in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under T1190 Exploit Public-Facing Application, highlighting the importance of proper input validation and secure coding practices in preventing such remote code execution vulnerabilities. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls and regular security assessments to detect and prevent similar vulnerabilities in their systems.