CVE-2008-4798 in WebGUI
Summary
by MITRE
The loadModule function in lib/WebGUI/Asset.pm in WebGUI before 7.5.30 (stable) allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code by uploading a Perl module and accessing it via a crafted URL.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/13/2018
The vulnerability described in CVE-2008-4798 represents a critical remote code execution flaw within the WebGUI content management system. This vulnerability exists in the loadModule function located within the lib/WebGUI/Asset.pm file of WebGUI versions prior to 7.5.30. The flaw enables remote attackers to upload arbitrary Perl modules and subsequently execute them by crafting specific URLs that reference these uploaded modules. This represents a severe security weakness that fundamentally compromises the integrity and confidentiality of web applications relying on vulnerable WebGUI installations.
The technical root cause of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and improper handling of user-supplied module uploads within the WebGUI asset management system. When users upload Perl modules through the system, the loadModule function fails to properly sanitize or validate the uploaded content, allowing attackers to bypass normal security restrictions. The vulnerability specifically manifests when the system processes uploaded modules and attempts to load them dynamically, creating a path where attacker-controlled code can be executed within the web application's runtime environment. This flaw directly relates to CWE-434, which describes insecure upload of executable code, and demonstrates poor input validation practices that enable arbitrary code execution through file upload mechanisms.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is devastating for organizations using affected WebGUI versions. Attackers can escalate their privileges from mere remote access to full system compromise by uploading malicious Perl modules that execute with the privileges of the web server process. This allows for complete data exfiltration, system manipulation, and potential lateral movement within network environments. The vulnerability can be exploited without authentication, making it particularly dangerous as it enables attackers to compromise systems simply by uploading malicious content and accessing it through crafted URLs. Organizations may face significant regulatory and compliance violations, as this vulnerability can lead to unauthorized access to sensitive data and system resources.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2008-4798 require immediate implementation of several security measures. The primary and most effective solution is upgrading to WebGUI version 7.5.30 or later, which contains patches addressing the module loading vulnerability. Organizations should also implement strict file upload validation mechanisms that prevent Perl modules and other executable code from being uploaded to the system. Additional protective measures include restricting write permissions on upload directories, implementing proper content type validation, and establishing robust access controls around module loading functions. Security monitoring should be enhanced to detect unusual file upload patterns and module loading activities. From an ATT&CK framework perspective, this vulnerability maps to technique T1190 - Exploit Public-Facing Application and T1059.007 - Command and Scripting Interpreter: Perl, highlighting the need for network boundary protection and application whitelisting controls. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls and regular security assessments to identify similar vulnerabilities in other applications and prevent exploitation of similar flaws in their web infrastructure.