CVE-2008-6084 in Iamma Simple Gallery
Summary
by MITRE
Unrestricted file upload vulnerability in pages/download.php in Iamma Simple Gallery 1.0 and 2.0 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code by uploading a file with an executable extension, then accessing it via a direct request to the file in the uploads directory.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/08/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-6084 represents a critical unrestricted file upload flaw within the Iamma Simple Gallery web application versions 1.0 and 2.0. This weakness resides in the pages/download.php component which fails to properly validate or sanitize file uploads, creating a pathway for remote attackers to bypass security controls and execute malicious code on the target system. The vulnerability specifically targets the upload functionality that processes files with executable extensions, allowing adversaries to deploy web shells or other malicious payloads that can be executed through direct HTTP requests to the uploaded files within the designated uploads directory.
From a technical perspective, this vulnerability operates under the Common Weakness Enumeration category CWE-434 which defines the weakness of Unrestricted Upload of File with Dangerous Type. The flaw manifests when the application does not implement proper file type validation, file extension checking, or content verification mechanisms. Attackers can exploit this by uploading PHP files with extensions such as .php, .php3, .php4, or .php5 that are executable by the web server, then accessing these files directly through the web interface to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the web server process. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and the absence of proper access controls that should prevent execution of uploaded files in the web root directory.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and multifaceted, potentially allowing attackers to gain full control over the affected web server. Successful exploitation enables remote code execution capabilities that can be leveraged to establish persistent backdoors, steal sensitive data, conduct further reconnaissance, or use the compromised server as a launching point for attacks against other systems within the network. The vulnerability aligns with several MITRE ATT&CK techniques including T1190 for Exploit Public-Facing Application and T1059 for Command and Scripting Interpreter, where adversaries can execute commands through the uploaded PHP files to manipulate the server environment. The attack surface is particularly concerning given that the vulnerability affects widely used gallery applications that may be deployed in environments with sensitive data or critical business operations.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2008-6084 should focus on implementing robust file upload validation mechanisms and establishing proper server configurations to prevent execution of uploaded files. Organizations must implement strict file type validation by checking both file extensions and MIME types against whitelists of allowed file types, while also implementing proper file naming conventions that prevent direct execution of uploaded content. The recommended approach includes configuring web servers to disable PHP execution in upload directories, implementing proper access controls that prevent direct access to uploaded files, and ensuring that all uploaded files are scanned for malicious content before storage. Additionally, the application should be updated to a patched version that addresses the file upload validation issues, and network segmentation should be implemented to limit the potential impact of successful exploitation. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of regular security audits, proper input validation practices, and adherence to secure coding standards to prevent similar weaknesses in web applications.