CVE-2010-1334 in Pulse
Summary
by MITRE
Unrestricted file upload vulnerability in Pulse CMS Basic 1.2.4 allows remote authenticated users to execute arbitrary code by uploading a file with an executable extension followed by a safe extension, then accessing it via a direct request to the file in an unspecified directory, a different vulnerability than CVE-2010-0993.
VulDB is the best source for vulnerability data and more expert information about this specific topic.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/29/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2010-1334 represents a critical unrestricted file upload flaw in Pulse CMS Basic version 1.2.4 that enables remote authenticated attackers to achieve arbitrary code execution. This vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and file extension filtering mechanisms within the content management system's upload functionality. The flaw specifically allows attackers who have authenticated access to the system to bypass security controls by uploading malicious files that appear benign due to their extension combinations. The vulnerability operates through a sophisticated technique where attackers can append executable extensions such as .php or .asp followed by seemingly safe extensions like .jpg or .png, exploiting the system's failure to properly validate the actual file content rather than relying solely on extension-based filtering.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-434, which addresses the improper restriction of file uploads, and demonstrates a classic case of insecure file handling practices. The attack vector requires an authenticated user context, making it particularly dangerous as it leverages legitimate user privileges to escalate privileges and execute malicious code. The vulnerability's impact extends beyond simple file upload capabilities as it creates a persistent backdoor within the web application environment, allowing attackers to maintain long-term access and potentially escalate their privileges to system-level access. The system's failure to properly sanitize file names and content during the upload process creates a pathway for attackers to place malicious scripts in directories that are accessible via direct HTTP requests, effectively bypassing traditional security controls.
Operationally, this vulnerability poses significant risks to organizations using Pulse CMS Basic 1.2.4 as it enables attackers to gain unauthorized control over the web server hosting the content management system. The exploitation process involves uploading a malicious file with a carefully crafted filename that passes the system's validation checks, followed by accessing the uploaded file through direct URL requests to execute the payload. This vulnerability is distinct from CVE-2010-0993, indicating that it represents a separate attack surface with different exploitation mechanisms and potentially different impact vectors. The threat landscape surrounding this vulnerability is particularly concerning as it allows attackers to establish persistent access points within the web application environment, potentially leading to data breaches, service disruption, and further lateral movement within the network infrastructure.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2010-1334 require comprehensive security measures that address both immediate remediation and long-term prevention. Organizations should implement strict file validation mechanisms that examine file content rather than relying solely on extension filtering, ensuring that uploaded files are scanned for malicious content using antivirus solutions and content inspection tools. The implementation of proper file type validation, including MIME type checking and binary signature analysis, is essential to prevent the execution of malicious scripts. Security controls should include restricting upload directories to non-executable locations, implementing proper access controls for uploaded files, and establishing robust logging mechanisms to monitor file upload activities. Additionally, regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be conducted to identify and remediate similar issues across the organization's web applications, with particular attention to legacy systems that may contain similar insecure file handling practices. The vulnerability's classification under ATT&CK technique T1190 emphasizes the importance of network infiltration and persistence mechanisms, requiring organizations to implement network segmentation and monitoring to detect and prevent unauthorized file uploads and execution activities.