CVE-2011-0678 in ActiveWeb
Summary
by MITRE
Unrestricted file upload vulnerability in the EasyEdit module in Lomtec ActiveWeb Professional 3.0 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code by uploading an executable file via the UploadDirectory and Accepted Extensions fields in the getImagefile component of EasyEdit.cfm.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/01/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2011-0678 represents a critical unrestricted file upload flaw within the EasyEdit module of Lomtec ActiveWeb Professional 3.0. This security weakness stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization mechanisms that permit remote attackers to bypass file type restrictions and upload malicious executable files to the target system. The vulnerability specifically affects the getImagefile component of EasyEdit.cfm, where attackers can manipulate the UploadDirectory and Accepted Extensions fields to circumvent security controls. This flaw aligns with CWE-434, which categorizes unrestricted file uploads as a significant security risk due to the potential for arbitrary code execution and system compromise.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability exploits the lack of proper file extension validation and content verification within the EasyEdit module. Attackers can upload files with extensions that are not properly filtered, allowing them to place malicious executables or scripts in the web root directory. The vulnerability occurs because the application fails to validate file contents against their declared extensions, enabling attackers to rename benign files with malicious extensions or upload files that appear legitimate but contain harmful code. This weakness directly enables code execution attacks by allowing the uploaded files to be executed within the context of the web server, potentially providing attackers with full system access or the ability to establish persistent backdoors.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution to encompass complete system compromise and data breach potential. Remote attackers can leverage this flaw to upload web shells, reverse shells, or other malicious payloads that can be executed by the web server, enabling them to gain unauthorized access to the underlying system. The vulnerability can result in data theft, system modification, denial of service, and establishment of persistent access points for further attacks. Additionally, the compromised system may become a launching point for lateral movement within networks, particularly in environments where ActiveWeb Professional is deployed across multiple systems. This vulnerability also represents a significant risk to organizations using the affected software, as it can lead to regulatory compliance violations and substantial financial losses due to data breaches and system downtime.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2011-0678 should focus on implementing robust file upload validation controls and restricting upload capabilities where possible. Organizations should immediately apply vendor patches or updates if available, as this vulnerability has been widely recognized and addressed by software vendors. Security measures must include strict file extension filtering, content type validation, and mandatory file format verification to prevent malicious uploads. The implementation of the principle of least privilege should be enforced by restricting upload directories to non-executable locations and ensuring proper file permissions are set. Network segmentation and intrusion detection systems should be deployed to monitor for suspicious upload activities and potential exploitation attempts. According to ATT&CK framework category T1190, this vulnerability maps to the exploitation of remote services, while the technique T1078 covers legitimate credentials use, highlighting the need for comprehensive monitoring and access control measures to prevent unauthorized file uploads and system compromise.