CVE-2008-6942 in Realtor Classifieds System
Summary
by MITRE
Unrestricted file upload vulnerability in ScriptsFeed Realtor Classifieds System (aka Real Estate Classifieds) allows remote authenticated users to execute arbitrary code by uploading a file with an executable extension as a profile logo, then accessing it via a direct request to the file in re_images/.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/11/2024
The CVE-2008-6942 vulnerability represents a critical unrestricted file upload flaw within the ScriptsFeed Realtor Classifieds System, a web application designed for real estate listings and classified advertisements. This vulnerability specifically affects the profile logo upload functionality, where authenticated users can exploit the system's inadequate input validation mechanisms to upload malicious files with executable extensions. The flaw resides in the application's failure to properly sanitize and validate file extensions during the upload process, creating a pathway for attackers to bypass security controls that should prevent the upload of potentially harmful files.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from insufficient server-side validation of uploaded files within the re_images/ directory. When users upload profile logos, the application accepts files without proper extension filtering or content verification, allowing attackers to submit files with extensions such as .asp, .aspx, .php, or .jsp that can execute code on the web server. The vulnerability is authenticated, meaning that an attacker must first obtain valid user credentials to exploit this weakness, but once authenticated, they can leverage this flaw to gain persistent access to the system. This represents a classic example of a file upload vulnerability that can lead to remote code execution, providing attackers with the ability to execute arbitrary commands on the target system.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it fundamentally compromises the integrity and security posture of the entire web application. Attackers who successfully exploit this vulnerability can upload web shells, backdoor scripts, or other malicious payloads that persist even after the initial attack. The direct access path via re_images/ directory means that once a malicious file is uploaded, it can be executed by simply requesting the file through a web browser or HTTP client, making this attack vector particularly dangerous and easy to exploit. This vulnerability also enables attackers to potentially escalate privileges, access sensitive user data, and use the compromised system as a launching point for further attacks within the network infrastructure.
Organizations should implement comprehensive mitigation strategies to address this vulnerability, including immediate patching of the affected application, implementing strict file extension validation, and deploying content type checks for all file uploads. The solution should involve filtering out executable extensions, implementing proper file type validation, and ensuring that uploaded files are stored in a non-executable directory with appropriate access controls. Security measures should also include monitoring for suspicious file upload activities and implementing web application firewalls to detect and block malicious upload attempts. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-434, which specifically addresses the insecure upload of executable files, and maps to ATT&CK technique T1190 for exploiting vulnerabilities in web applications, emphasizing the need for robust input validation and secure coding practices to prevent such security breaches in web-based systems.