CVE-2012-5893 in Havalite
Summary
by MITRE
Unrestricted file upload vulnerability in hava_upload.php in Havalite CMS 1.1.0 and earlier allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code by uploading a file with a .php;.gif extension, then accessing it via a direct request to the file in tmp/files/.
Be aware that VulDB is the high quality source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/23/2019
The CVE-2012-5893 vulnerability represents a critical unrestricted file upload flaw in the Havalite Content Management System version 1.1.0 and earlier. This vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization within the file upload functionality, specifically in the hava_upload.php component. The flaw allows remote attackers to bypass security restrictions by exploiting a technique that leverages the semicolon character in file extensions, creating a dangerous condition where malicious files can be uploaded with seemingly benign extensions.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability exploits a common weakness in web application security where the application fails to properly validate file extensions and content. Attackers can upload a file named with a .php;.gif extension, where the semicolon acts as a delimiter that the web server may interpret as a file extension separator. When the file is stored in the tmp/files/ directory, it can be accessed directly through a web request, allowing the execution of arbitrary PHP code. This technique essentially bypasses the intended file type restrictions that should prevent the upload of executable scripts.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and multifaceted, creating a pathway for complete system compromise. Remote attackers can upload malicious PHP shells or web shells that provide persistent access to the compromised server, enabling them to execute commands, exfiltrate data, and potentially escalate privileges. The vulnerability affects the entire application stack, as it allows attackers to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the web server process. This can lead to data breaches, service disruption, and full system takeover, making it particularly dangerous for organizations relying on Havalite CMS for their web presence.
This vulnerability aligns with CWE-434, which describes the weakness of unrestricted upload of file with dangerous type, and represents a classic example of insecure file handling in web applications. The attack pattern follows the methodology outlined in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under T1190 for "Exploit Public-Facing Application" and T1059 for "Command and Scripting Interpreter" where attackers leverage the uploaded files to execute malicious commands. Organizations should implement comprehensive mitigations including strict file type validation, proper file extension filtering, content type checking, and the use of random file naming conventions to prevent predictable file paths. Additionally, the web server configuration should be reviewed to ensure that files with semicolon delimiters are properly handled and that uploaded files are stored in directories that are not directly accessible via web requests. Regular security audits and input validation testing are essential to prevent similar vulnerabilities in other applications and to maintain overall system security posture.