CVE-2008-6814 in Com Simpleboard
Summary
by MITRE
Unrestricted file upload vulnerability in image_upload.php in the SimpleBoard (com_simpleboard) component 1.0.1 and earlier for Mambo allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code by uploading a file with an executable extension and an image/jpeg content type, then accessing this file via a direct request to the file in components/com_simpleboard/, a different vulnerability than CVE-2006-3528.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/09/2024
The CVE-2008-6814 vulnerability represents a critical unrestricted file upload flaw within the SimpleBoard component version 1.0.1 and earlier for the Mambo content management system. This vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and file type verification mechanisms within the image_upload.php script, which processes file uploads without proper restrictions on file extensions or content type checks. The flaw allows malicious actors to bypass security measures by uploading files with executable extensions such as .php, .asp, or .jsp while disguising them with legitimate image/jpeg content type headers, effectively fooling the system into treating malicious code as harmless media files.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through a sophisticated social engineering approach where attackers craft malicious files that appear to be legitimate images but contain executable code. The vulnerability specifically targets the component directory structure at components/com_simpleboard/, where uploaded files are stored and subsequently accessible via direct web requests. This design flaw enables attackers to upload shell scripts or web shells that can execute arbitrary commands on the target server, providing them with persistent access and control over the compromised system. The vulnerability operates under the CWE-434 principle of unrestricted upload of file with dangerous type, which is classified as a high-risk security weakness in software development practices.
The operational impact of CVE-2008-6814 extends beyond simple code execution to encompass complete system compromise and potential data breach scenarios. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to establish backdoors, install additional malware, steal sensitive information, or use the compromised server as a launchpad for further attacks within the network infrastructure. The vulnerability's persistence is particularly concerning as uploaded files remain accessible until manually deleted, providing attackers with long-term access to the compromised environment. This weakness aligns with ATT&CK technique T1100 for Web Shell deployment and T1059 for command and scripting interpreter usage, making it a prime target for advanced persistent threat actors seeking to maintain covert access to target systems.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2008-6814 require immediate implementation of multiple defensive layers including strict file extension validation, content type verification, and proper file storage practices. Organizations should implement whitelist-based file extension filtering that only permits known safe image formats such as .jpg, .png, and .gif while rejecting executable extensions entirely. The system must enforce proper file validation by examining both file extensions and actual file content rather than relying solely on MIME type headers which can be easily manipulated. Additional protective measures include storing uploaded files outside the web root directory, implementing proper access controls, and ensuring that uploaded files are not directly executable. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of keeping CMS components updated and following secure coding practices that prevent arbitrary file upload scenarios, as outlined in OWASP Top 10 security guidelines and the principle of least privilege in system design.