CVE-2009-1615 in Leap
Summary
by MITRE
Unrestricted file upload vulnerability in Leap CMS 0.1.4 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code by uploading a file with an executable extension via an admin.system.files (aka Manage Files) request to the default URI, then accessing the file via a direct request.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/28/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2009-1615 represents a critical unrestricted file upload flaw in Leap CMS version 0.1.4 that exposes systems to remote code execution attacks. This vulnerability specifically affects the admin.system.files functionality within the content management system, creating a pathway for malicious actors to bypass security controls and deploy malicious payloads. The flaw exists in the default URI handling mechanism where the system fails to properly validate or restrict file extensions during upload operations, allowing attackers to upload files with potentially dangerous executable extensions such as .php, .asp, .jsp, or other server-side script extensions.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability follows a well-defined attack pattern that aligns with common web application security weaknesses categorized under CWE-434, which addresses the improper restriction of file uploads. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability by crafting malicious files with executable extensions and uploading them through the vulnerable Manage Files interface. The system's failure to implement proper file type validation and content verification creates an environment where uploaded files are stored without adequate sanitization checks. This weakness enables adversaries to bypass authentication mechanisms and execute arbitrary code on the target server, potentially leading to full system compromise. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it does not require special privileges or complex exploitation techniques, making it accessible to attackers with basic web application attack knowledge.
The operational impact of CVE-2009-1615 extends beyond simple code execution to encompass complete system compromise and data breach potential. Once an attacker successfully uploads a malicious file, they can execute commands on the server with the privileges of the web application user, which often corresponds to the web server process. This access level typically provides the attacker with the ability to read, modify, or delete system files, access databases, establish persistent backdoors, and potentially escalate privileges to gain root or administrator access. The vulnerability also creates opportunities for attackers to use the compromised system as a launch point for further attacks within the network infrastructure. Organizations may experience significant data loss, service disruption, and regulatory compliance violations when such vulnerabilities are exploited, particularly in environments where Leap CMS is used for critical business operations.
The mitigation strategies for this vulnerability must address both immediate remediation and long-term security hardening measures. Organizations should implement strict file type validation and content checking mechanisms that prevent the upload of executable files or scripts through the admin interface. This includes maintaining comprehensive blacklists of dangerous file extensions and implementing file content verification to ensure that uploaded files match their claimed extensions. The system should also enforce proper file permissions and storage segregation to prevent direct execution of uploaded files from web-accessible directories. Security measures should include regular security updates and patches for Leap CMS, implementation of web application firewalls to monitor and block suspicious upload attempts, and comprehensive access controls that limit file upload capabilities to authorized administrators only. Additionally, organizations should conduct regular security assessments and penetration testing to identify similar vulnerabilities in other applications and systems within their infrastructure, following the principles of defense in depth as outlined in cybersecurity frameworks such as NIST SP 800-53. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of secure coding practices and input validation, which are fundamental requirements in the OWASP Top Ten security controls and align with the MITRE ATT&CK framework's techniques for command and control and execution phases of attack.