CVE-2008-6660 in bigdump
Summary
by MITRE
Unrestricted file upload vulnerability in bigdump.php in Alexey Ozerov BigDump 0.29b allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code by uploading a file with an executable extension followed by a .sql extension, then accessing this file via a direct request. NOTE: some of these details are obtained from third party information.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/28/2025
The CVE-2008-6660 vulnerability represents a critical unrestricted file upload flaw in BigDump 0.29b, a database import utility developed by Alexey Ozerov. This vulnerability arises from inadequate input validation and file extension filtering mechanisms within the bigdump.php script, creating a significant security risk for web applications that utilize this tool for database management operations. The flaw specifically manifests when the application fails to properly validate file extensions or content, allowing malicious actors to bypass security restrictions through clever filename manipulation techniques.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability relies on a sophisticated attack pattern where remote attackers craft malicious files with executable extensions followed by .sql extensions. This technique exploits the application's insufficient file validation logic, which typically only checks for the presence of .sql extension while ignoring the actual file type or content. Attackers can upload files with extensions such as .php, .asp, or .pl followed by .sql, effectively bypassing the upload restrictions. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it allows execution of arbitrary code on the target server, enabling attackers to gain full control over the affected system.
The operational impact of CVE-2008-6660 extends far beyond simple data compromise, as it provides attackers with complete server access and control capabilities. Once successfully exploited, adversaries can execute malicious code, install backdoors, modify existing files, or even establish persistent access to the compromised system. This vulnerability directly maps to CWE-434 Unrestricted Upload of File with Dangerous Type, which is classified under the CWE Top 25 Most Dangerous Software Weaknesses. The attack vector aligns with ATT&CK technique T1195.002 for Content Injection and T1059.007 for Command and Scripting Interpreter, as it allows for command execution through uploaded malicious files.
The security implications of this vulnerability are particularly severe in web hosting environments where multiple applications share the same infrastructure, as successful exploitation can lead to complete system compromise and potential lateral movement within the network. Organizations using BigDump 0.29b are at significant risk of data breaches, system hijacking, and potential use as a launchpad for broader attacks against connected systems. The vulnerability's persistence stems from the fact that once a malicious file is uploaded and accessed, it remains available for execution until manually removed by system administrators. This makes it an attractive target for attackers seeking long-term access to compromised systems, as the uploaded files can serve as persistent backdoors for future exploitation attempts.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2008-6660 require immediate implementation of multiple defensive layers including strict file type validation, removal of executable extensions from allowed upload patterns, and implementation of proper file content verification mechanisms. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls to detect and block suspicious upload attempts, while ensuring that uploaded files are stored outside the web root directory to prevent direct execution. Additionally, regular security audits and vulnerability assessments should be conducted to identify similar weaknesses in other applications and systems that may be vulnerable to similar unrestricted file upload attacks. The most effective remediation involves upgrading to a newer version of BigDump that properly validates file extensions and implements robust input sanitization measures to prevent such vulnerabilities from occurring in the first place.