CVE-2007-1552 in MetaForum
Summary
by MITRE
Unrestricted file upload vulnerability in usercp.php in MetaForum 0.513 Beta restricts file types based on the MIME type in the Content-type HTTP header, which allows remote attackers to upload and execute arbitrary scripts via an image MIME type with a filename containing an executable extension such as .php.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/30/2024
The vulnerability described in CVE-2007-1552 represents a critical security flaw in the MetaForum 0.513 Beta web application that demonstrates poor input validation and sanitization practices. This unrestricted file upload vulnerability exists within the usercp.php script, which serves as a user control panel component in the forum software. The flaw stems from the application's inadequate file type validation mechanism that relies solely on the MIME type present in the Content-type HTTP header rather than implementing robust file extension and content verification processes. This approach creates a significant attack surface where malicious actors can bypass security controls through simple manipulation of HTTP headers.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability exploits the trust placed in HTTP headers by the application's file upload validation logic. When users attempt to upload files through the usercp.php interface, the system performs type checking based exclusively on the Content-type header value sent by the client. Attackers can manipulate this header to present an image MIME type such as image/jpeg or image/png while simultaneously using a filename extension that indicates an executable file like .php, .asp, or .jsp. This technique, known as MIME type spoofing or header manipulation, allows the malicious file to pass the initial validation check and be stored on the server filesystem. The vulnerability specifically targets the application's reliance on client-provided metadata rather than implementing server-side verification of actual file content.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and far-reaching within the context of web application security. Successful exploitation enables remote attackers to upload malicious scripts that can be executed within the web server context, potentially leading to complete system compromise. Once an attacker gains the ability to execute arbitrary code through the uploaded file, they can establish persistent access, escalate privileges, and use the compromised server as a launch point for further attacks against the internal network. The vulnerability creates a direct pathway for attackers to bypass traditional security controls such as firewalls and intrusion detection systems, as the malicious files are uploaded through legitimate user interaction channels. This represents a classic example of a server-side vulnerability that transforms user interaction into a vector for code execution.
The security implications of CVE-2007-1552 align with multiple CWE categories including CWE-434, which describes "Unrestricted Upload of File with Dangerous Type," and CWE-20, which covers "Improper Input Validation." From an ATT&CK framework perspective, this vulnerability maps to T1059.007 for "Command and Scripting Interpreter: Python" and T1505.003 for "Server Software Component: Web Shell" when attackers leverage the uploaded files for remote code execution. The vulnerability demonstrates a fundamental flaw in the application's security architecture that prioritizes convenience over security, allowing attackers to exploit the trust relationship between client and server. Organizations affected by this vulnerability should immediately implement comprehensive mitigations including strict file extension validation, server-side content type verification, and proper file handling procedures that prevent executable files from being stored or executed in web-accessible directories. The incident also highlights the importance of defense in depth strategies and the necessity of implementing multiple layers of security controls rather than relying on a single validation mechanism.
This vulnerability type has been extensively documented in security literature and represents one of the most common attack vectors in web application security. The flaw in MetaForum 0.513 Beta exemplifies how simple oversights in input validation can lead to catastrophic security consequences, emphasizing the critical importance of proper security coding practices and thorough security testing during application development. The vulnerability serves as a reminder that security controls must be implemented at multiple layers and that client-side validation should never be trusted as the sole defense mechanism.