CVE-2008-7076 in Stararticles
Summary
by MITRE
Unrestricted file upload vulnerability in user.modify.profile.php in Kalptaru Infotech Ltd. Star Articles 6.0 allows remote authenticated users to execute arbitrary code by uploading a file with an executable extension as a profile photo, then accessing it via a direct request to the file in authorphoto/.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/11/2024
This vulnerability represents a critical security flaw in the Star Articles 6.0 content management system developed by Kalptaru Infotech Ltd. The issue stems from inadequate input validation and file upload restrictions within the user profile modification functionality. The vulnerability specifically affects the user.modify.profile.php script which handles profile photo uploads, creating an unrestricted file upload condition that allows authenticated users to bypass normal security controls. The flaw enables attackers to upload malicious files with executable extensions such as .php, .asp, or .jsp, which can then be executed on the web server when accessed directly through the authorphoto/ directory. This represents a classic path traversal and code execution vulnerability that directly violates security principle of least privilege and input sanitization.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability follows a predictable pattern where an authenticated user can leverage their access rights to upload a malicious payload to the server. The uploaded file is stored in the authorphoto/ directory with a predictable path, allowing subsequent direct access requests to execute the malicious code. This type of vulnerability maps directly to CWE-434 which specifically addresses Unrestricted Upload of File with Dangerous Type, and falls under the broader category of insecure file handling practices. The vulnerability demonstrates poor security architecture where file type validation is either completely absent or insufficiently implemented, allowing attackers to bypass security controls through legitimate user functionality.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and multifaceted. Successful exploitation can result in complete server compromise, allowing attackers to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the web server process. This provides attackers with a persistent foothold for further reconnaissance, lateral movement, and data exfiltration within the network. The vulnerability also enables attackers to establish backdoors, install malware, or use the compromised server as a launch point for attacks against other systems. From an attacker perspective, this vulnerability represents a high-value target as it provides code execution capabilities without requiring additional exploitation techniques. The attack surface is further expanded due to the authenticated nature of the vulnerability, meaning that attackers need only obtain valid user credentials rather than relying on more complex attack vectors.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on implementing robust input validation, file type restrictions, and proper access controls. The system should enforce strict file extension validation and reject any uploads with executable extensions regardless of file content. Implementing a whitelist approach for allowed file types, combined with proper file name sanitization, can prevent malicious files from being stored or executed. Additionally, uploaded files should be stored outside the web root directory or configured with appropriate permissions to prevent direct execution. The system should also implement proper logging and monitoring of file upload activities to detect suspicious behavior. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190 which covers Exploit Public-Facing Application, and T1059 which covers Command and Scripting Interpreter, making it a critical target for both defensive and offensive security teams. Organizations should conduct regular security assessments and implement proper patch management processes to address such vulnerabilities before they can be exploited in the wild.