CVE-2008-7026 in eFront
Summary
by MITRE
Unrestricted file upload vulnerability in filesystem3.class.php in eFront 3.5.1 build 2710 and earlier allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code by uploading a file with an executable extension as an avatar, then accessing it via a direct request to the file in (1) student/avatars/ or (2) professor/avatars/.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/05/2024
The vulnerability described in CVE-2008-7026 represents a critical security flaw in the eFront learning management system version 3.5.1 build 2710 and earlier. This unrestricted file upload vulnerability specifically targets the filesystem3.class.php component, which handles file operations within the system. The flaw allows remote attackers to bypass normal file validation mechanisms and upload malicious files with executable extensions as user avatars. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it affects both student and professor avatar directories, creating multiple attack vectors within the system. The security breach occurs when users upload files to the student/avatars/ or professor/avatars/ directories without proper validation of file types or content, enabling attackers to execute arbitrary code on the server.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization within the file upload functionality. The filesystem3.class.php script fails to properly verify file extensions or content types when processing avatar uploads, allowing attackers to submit files with extensions such as .php, .asp, .jsp, or other executable formats. When these malicious files are uploaded and subsequently accessed through direct HTTP requests to the avatar directories, the web server executes the uploaded code with the privileges of the web application. This type of vulnerability is classified as CWE-434, Unrestricted Upload of File with Dangerous Type, which directly maps to the ATT&CK technique T1190 for Exploit Public-Facing Application. The vulnerability demonstrates a fundamental failure in the principle of least privilege and proper file handling within the application's security architecture.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and multifaceted. Successful exploitation allows attackers to gain remote code execution capabilities on the affected server, potentially leading to complete system compromise. Attackers can upload backdoor scripts, web shells, or other malicious payloads that persist beyond the initial attack vector. The vulnerability affects both student and professor user roles, meaning that any authenticated user could potentially exploit this flaw to escalate privileges or compromise the entire learning management system. Additionally, since the uploaded files are stored in predictable directories, attackers can easily locate and execute their malicious code without requiring complex reconnaissance. This vulnerability undermines the integrity of the entire eFront platform and could result in data breaches, service disruption, and unauthorized access to sensitive educational information.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2008-7026 should focus on implementing robust file validation mechanisms and restricting file upload capabilities. Organizations should immediately upgrade to eFront versions that address this vulnerability, as the affected build 2710 represents an outdated and insecure configuration. The recommended approach involves implementing strict file type validation that rejects executable extensions and employs content-based verification rather than relying solely on file extensions. Security measures should include configuring the web server to prevent execution of uploaded files in avatar directories, implementing proper access controls, and ensuring that uploaded files are stored outside of web-accessible directories. Additionally, organizations should implement regular security audits and penetration testing to identify similar vulnerabilities in other components of their learning management systems. The ATT&CK framework suggests implementing defensive measures such as network segmentation, monitoring for suspicious file uploads, and enforcing strict input validation policies across all file handling operations within the application.