CVE-2008-6785 in Mini File Host
Summary
by MITRE
Unrestricted file upload vulnerability in Mini File Host 1.5 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 an unspecified directory, as demonstrated by creating a name.php file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/19/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-6785 represents a critical unrestricted file upload flaw in Mini File Host version 1.5 that enables remote attackers to achieve arbitrary code execution through a straightforward yet dangerous exploitation technique. This vulnerability falls under the category of insecure file handling practices where the application fails to properly validate or sanitize file uploads, creating an opening for malicious actors to bypass security controls and gain unauthorized system access. The flaw specifically manifests when the application accepts files without adequate restrictions on file types, allowing attackers to upload executable files with extensions such as .php, .asp, or .jsp that can be executed within the web server environment.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and inadequate file type checking mechanisms within the Mini File Host application. When users upload files through the web interface, the system does not properly verify the content type or file extension of the uploaded files, nor does it perform proper file content analysis to determine if the file matches its declared extension. This lack of proper validation creates a pathway for attackers to upload malicious files that are subsequently stored in an unspecified directory within the web server's file system. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it allows attackers to upload files with executable extensions that can be directly accessed and executed through HTTP requests, making the exploitation process extremely straightforward and effective.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends far beyond simple unauthorized file access, as it provides attackers with a direct route to execute arbitrary code on the target system. Once an attacker successfully uploads a malicious file such as name.php, they can access it directly through a web browser or HTTP client, potentially gaining complete control over the web server. This type of vulnerability can lead to full system compromise, data exfiltration, lateral movement within the network, and the establishment of persistent backdoors. The implications are severe because the vulnerability can be exploited without requiring authentication or specialized knowledge beyond basic web application exploitation techniques, making it particularly attractive to attackers of varying skill levels.
The vulnerability aligns with CWE-434, which specifically addresses the issue of unrestricted upload of executable code, and maps to several ATT&CK techniques including T1190 for exploit public-facing application and T1059 for command and scripting interpreter. Organizations affected by this vulnerability face significant risk of data breaches, system compromise, and potential regulatory violations, particularly in environments where sensitive data is stored or processed. The lack of proper input validation and file type restrictions creates a fundamental security flaw that can be exploited across multiple attack vectors, making it a critical priority for remediation.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2008-6785 require immediate implementation of comprehensive file upload validation controls and proper secure coding practices. Organizations must implement strict file type validation that checks both file extensions and content signatures, enforce proper file naming conventions that prevent executable files from being uploaded, and ensure that uploaded files are stored outside the web root directory. Additionally, implementing proper access controls, file permission settings, and regular security audits can help prevent exploitation attempts. The most effective remediation involves upgrading to a secure version of the application that properly implements file upload restrictions and validation mechanisms, combined with regular security testing and monitoring of file upload functionality to prevent similar vulnerabilities from being introduced in future development cycles.