CVE-2008-6541 in DotNetNuke
Summary
by MITRE
Unrestricted file upload vulnerability in the file manager module in DotNetNuke before 4.8.2 allows remote administrators to upload arbitrary files and gain privileges to the server via unspecified vectors.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/29/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-6541 represents a critical security flaw in the DotNetNuke content management system affecting versions prior to 4.8.2. This unrestricted file upload vulnerability resides within the file manager module, creating a significant attack surface that can be exploited by remote administrators to execute arbitrary code and escalate privileges on the affected server. The vulnerability stems from insufficient validation mechanisms that fail to properly restrict file types and content, allowing malicious actors to bypass security controls and upload potentially harmful files to the server environment.
This security weakness operates through a fundamental flaw in input validation and file handling processes within the DotNetNuke framework. The vulnerability enables attackers to upload files with potentially malicious content such as web shells, scripts, or other executable code without proper authorization. The unspecified vectors mentioned in the description suggest that multiple attack paths may exist, including direct exploitation of the file upload functionality or indirect methods that leverage other system components. The flaw essentially allows an authenticated attacker with administrative privileges to circumvent normal security boundaries and gain unauthorized access to server resources.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends far beyond simple file upload capabilities, as it provides attackers with the ability to execute arbitrary code on the target server. This can lead to complete system compromise, data exfiltration, and persistent access to the affected environment. The vulnerability creates a privilege escalation scenario where attackers can potentially move laterally within the network, access sensitive data, and establish backdoors for continued unauthorized access. The implications are particularly severe given that the vulnerability affects the core file management functionality of DotNetNuke, which is critical for content management and user interaction.
From a cybersecurity perspective, this vulnerability aligns with CWE-434 which describes "Unrestricted Upload of File with Dangerous Type" and represents a classic example of insecure file handling practices. The attack vector falls under the ATT&CK framework's technique T1190 "Exploit Public-Facing Application" and T1059 "Command and Scripting Interpreter" as attackers can upload malicious files and subsequently execute them. Organizations running affected DotNetNuke versions face significant risk of unauthorized access and system compromise, particularly in environments where administrative credentials may be exposed or where privilege escalation opportunities exist within the application architecture.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate patching of affected DotNetNuke installations to version 4.8.2 or later, which includes proper file type validation and content checking mechanisms. Additional protective measures should include implementing strict file type restrictions, validating file content against known malicious patterns, and monitoring file upload activities for suspicious behavior. Network segmentation and access control measures can help limit the impact of potential exploitation, while regular security audits and penetration testing should verify that proper controls are in place. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls to detect and block malicious file upload attempts, and establish robust incident response procedures to address potential exploitation attempts.