CVE-2011-3980 in Ameos Dragndropupload
Summary
by MITRE
Unspecified vulnerability in the Drag Drop Mass Upload (ameos_dragndropupload) extension 2.0.2 and earlier for TYPO3 allows remote attackers to upload arbitrary files via unknown vectors.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/12/2018
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2011-3980 resides within the Drag Drop Mass Upload extension for TYPO3 content management system, specifically affecting versions 2.0.2 and earlier. This represents a critical security flaw that enables remote attackers to bypass normal file upload restrictions and execute arbitrary file uploads on vulnerable systems. The unspecified nature of the vulnerability vectors suggests that the underlying flaw may involve multiple attack pathways or that the exact technical mechanism was not fully disclosed in the initial vulnerability report. The extension's functionality, designed to facilitate mass file uploads through drag and drop interfaces, creates an attack surface that can be exploited without authentication. This vulnerability directly impacts the integrity and security posture of TYPO3 installations, as it allows malicious actors to introduce potentially harmful files into the system's file structure, potentially leading to further compromise through execution of malicious code.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability involves leveraging weaknesses in the file upload validation mechanisms within the ameos_dragndropupload extension. Attackers can manipulate the upload process to bypass security checks that should normally prevent the upload of dangerous file types such as php scripts, executables, or other malicious payloads. The vulnerability likely stems from insufficient input validation, inadequate file type checking, or improper handling of file extensions and content. This flaw enables attackers to upload files with extensions that are not properly restricted, potentially allowing the execution of code on the web server. The vulnerability can be classified under CWE-434, which deals with Unrestricted Upload of File with Dangerous Type, and represents a classic path to remote code execution through file upload vulnerabilities. The attack vector operates entirely through web-based interfaces, making it accessible to attackers without requiring local system access or elevated privileges.
The operational impact of CVE-2011-3980 extends beyond simple unauthorized file uploads, creating substantial risks for organizations using vulnerable TYPO3 installations. Successful exploitation can lead to complete system compromise, as attackers can upload web shells or other malicious scripts that provide persistent access to the compromised server. This vulnerability can serve as a stepping stone for more extensive attacks, allowing threat actors to establish backdoors, escalate privileges, or launch further attacks against internal networks. The implications for data integrity and confidentiality are severe, as attackers can potentially access sensitive information stored on the server or modify content in ways that could damage the organization's reputation. The vulnerability also impacts system availability, as malicious files could be used to consume resources or disrupt normal operations. Organizations may face regulatory compliance issues and potential legal consequences if sensitive data is compromised through such vulnerabilities, particularly in environments subject to data protection regulations.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2011-3980 should focus on immediate remediation through patching the affected extension to version 2.0.3 or later, which contains the necessary security fixes. Organizations should implement comprehensive file upload validation mechanisms that enforce strict content type checking and file extension restrictions. The principle of least privilege should be applied to file upload directories, ensuring that uploaded files cannot be executed directly by the web server. Security configurations should include proper file permissions, content validation, and regular security audits of uploaded files. Network-level protections such as web application firewalls can provide additional layers of defense by monitoring and filtering suspicious upload activities. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the importance of keeping CMS extensions updated and implementing robust security practices for file handling operations. Organizations should also consider implementing automated scanning tools to detect and prevent unauthorized file uploads, as well as establishing incident response procedures to address potential exploitation attempts. Regular security assessments and penetration testing can help identify similar vulnerabilities in other components of the web application stack, ensuring comprehensive protection against similar attack vectors.