CVE-2008-5220 in wPortfolio
Summary
by MITRE
Unrestricted file upload vulnerability in admin/upload_form.php in wPortfolio 0.3 and earlier allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code by uploading a file with an executable extension, then accessing it via a direct request to the file in admin/tmp/.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/11/2024
The CVE-2008-5220 vulnerability represents a critical unrestricted file upload flaw in the wPortfolio content management system version 0.3 and earlier. This vulnerability exists within the administrative upload functionality located in the admin/upload_form.php file, creating a pathway for remote attackers to bypass security controls and execute malicious code on the target system. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and sanitization mechanisms that fail to properly restrict file types and extensions during the upload process.
The technical implementation of this flaw allows attackers to upload files with executable extensions such as .php, .asp, or .jsp directly to the server's administrative temporary directory at admin/tmp/. This directory serves as a staging area for uploaded files, but lacks proper access controls or file type verification. Once a malicious file is successfully uploaded, attackers can directly access it through a web request to the file's location within the admin/tmp/ directory, enabling remote code execution. This vulnerability directly maps to CWE-434, which describes the improper restriction of uploads of executable code, and represents a classic example of insecure file handling in web applications.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and multifaceted, as it provides attackers with complete control over the affected server. Remote code execution capabilities enable adversaries to install backdoors, exfiltrate sensitive data, compromise other systems on the network, or establish persistent access. The vulnerability's exploitation requires minimal privileges and can be automated, making it particularly dangerous in automated attack scenarios. From an attacker's perspective, this vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190, which involves exploiting vulnerabilities in web applications to gain initial access. The compromised system becomes a potential launchpad for further lateral movement and escalation of privileges within the network infrastructure.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2008-5220 require immediate implementation of multiple security controls. Organizations should implement strict file type validation and extension filtering at both the application and server levels, rejecting any files with executable extensions from being uploaded to the system. The admin/tmp/ directory should be secured with proper access controls and restricted from direct web access. Additionally, implementing a secure file upload mechanism that stores uploaded files outside the web root directory and uses random or sanitized filenames can prevent direct execution of uploaded content. Regular security updates and patch management processes should be enforced to address known vulnerabilities, while implementing web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems can help detect and prevent exploitation attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of input validation and secure coding practices, particularly in administrative interfaces where elevated privileges are available.