CVE-2009-0372 in MemHT
Summary
by MITRE
Unrestricted file upload vulnerability in index.php in Miltenovik Manojlo MemHT Portal 4.0.1 and earlier allows remote authenticated users to execute arbitrary code by uploading a file with an executable extension and an image content type via a users editProfile action, then accessing this file via a direct request to the file in images/avatar/uploaded/.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/22/2024
The vulnerability described in CVE-2009-0372 represents a critical unrestricted file upload flaw within the Miltenovik Manojlo MemHT Portal version 4.0.1 and earlier systems. This security weakness stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization mechanisms within the user profile editing functionality, specifically in the index.php file. The vulnerability allows authenticated attackers to bypass security controls by uploading malicious files that appear to be legitimate image files but contain executable code, thereby creating a pathway for remote code execution on the affected server.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through a carefully crafted upload process where attackers can manipulate the file upload mechanism by setting the image content type while using an executable file extension. This technique leverages the trust placed in image file handling processes, as the system accepts files based on their content type header rather than performing comprehensive file extension validation. The vulnerability specifically targets the users editProfile action, which provides a legitimate interface for users to modify their profile information including avatar uploads. The uploaded files are stored in the images/avatar/uploaded/ directory, making them directly accessible via web requests.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and multifaceted, as it enables attackers to gain persistent control over the affected web server. Successful exploitation allows for arbitrary code execution, which can lead to complete system compromise, data theft, service disruption, and potential lateral movement within network environments. Attackers can upload web shells, malware, or other malicious executables that remain undetected by standard security measures. The vulnerability affects not only the immediate system but also poses risks to the broader network infrastructure, as compromised servers often serve as launching points for further attacks. This type of vulnerability directly violates the principle of least privilege and demonstrates a critical failure in input validation and file handling security measures.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate implementation of comprehensive file validation controls and proper security architecture design. Organizations should enforce strict file type validation by checking both file extensions and content signatures rather than relying solely on content type headers. The system must implement whitelisting mechanisms that only permit specific, safe file extensions and MIME types. Additionally, uploaded files should be stored in non-executable directories and should be renamed to prevent direct execution. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-434, which describes unrestricted file upload, and represents a common vector for attack patterns documented in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under initial access and execution phases. Security patches should be applied immediately to update the MemHT Portal to versions that address this flaw, while network segmentation and monitoring controls should be implemented to detect and prevent unauthorized file upload activities.