CVE-2011-1584 in Dotclear
Summary
by MITRE
The updateFile function in inc/core/class.dc.media.php in the Media Manager in Dotclear before 2.2.3 does not properly restrict pathnames, which allows remote authenticated users to upload and execute arbitrary PHP code via the media_path or media_file parameter. NOTE: some of these details are obtained from third party information.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/09/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2011-1584 resides within the Dotclear content management system's Media Manager component, specifically in the updateFile function located in the inc/core/class.dc.media.php file. This flaw represents a critical security weakness that affects versions prior to 2.2.3, creating an avenue for remote authenticated attackers to execute arbitrary code on vulnerable systems. The vulnerability stems from inadequate pathname validation within the media upload functionality, allowing malicious users to manipulate file paths and potentially gain unauthorized access to system resources.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the improper handling of user-supplied pathname parameters, specifically media_path and media_file, which are processed through the updateFile function. When authenticated users submit media files through the web interface, the application fails to adequately sanitize or validate the input parameters that define where files should be stored. This lack of proper input validation creates a path traversal condition that can be exploited to upload PHP code to arbitrary locations on the server filesystem. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it requires only authenticated access, meaning that any user with valid credentials can potentially exploit this flaw.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability enables attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code on the target system, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The attacker can upload malicious PHP scripts that can then be executed by the web server, allowing for data exfiltration, system command execution, or further lateral movement within the network. The implications extend beyond immediate code execution, as the attacker can establish persistent backdoors, modify system files, or use the compromised system as a launch point for attacks against other networked systems. This vulnerability essentially provides an attacker with a powerful foothold within the Dotclear application environment.
The security implications of CVE-2011-1584 align with CWE-22, which describes improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal. This weakness allows attackers to access files and directories that are stored outside the intended directory, potentially gaining access to sensitive system information or executing unauthorized code. The vulnerability also maps to ATT&CK technique T1105, which covers the use of remote services to establish initial access and persistence. Organizations using vulnerable Dotclear versions face significant risk of unauthorized code execution, data breaches, and potential complete system compromise.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability include immediate patching to version 2.2.3 or later, which contains the necessary fixes for the pathname validation issues. Additionally, implementing proper input validation and sanitization for all user-supplied parameters, particularly those related to file paths and uploads, would prevent similar vulnerabilities from occurring. Network segmentation and access controls should be implemented to limit the potential impact of successful exploitation, while monitoring systems should be configured to detect unusual file upload activities. Regular security audits and penetration testing can help identify similar path traversal vulnerabilities in other applications and systems within the organization's infrastructure.