CVE-2013-10047 in HTTP Server
Summary
by MITRE • 08/02/2025
An unrestricted file upload vulnerability exists in MiniWeb HTTP Server <= Build 300 that allows unauthenticated remote attackers to upload arbitrary files to the server’s filesystem. By abusing the upload handler and crafting a traversal path, an attacker can place a malicious .exe in system32, followed by a .mof file in the WMI directory. This triggers execution of the payload with SYSTEM privileges via the Windows Management Instrumentation service. The exploit is only viable on Windows versions prior to Vista.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/05/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2013-10047 represents a critical unrestricted file upload flaw in MiniWeb HTTP Server version 300 and earlier, constituting a severe security weakness that enables remote code execution without authentication. This vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization within the server's file upload functionality, allowing attackers to bypass normal file handling restrictions and place malicious files directly onto the target system. The flaw specifically affects Windows operating systems prior to Vista, making it particularly concerning for legacy environments where system updates may not be feasible. According to CWE-434, this vulnerability maps directly to unrestricted file upload issues that permit attackers to upload executable content, creating a direct pathway for privilege escalation and system compromise.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability involves crafting malicious file paths that leverage directory traversal techniques to place files in critical system locations. Attackers can upload a malicious executable file directly to the Windows system32 directory, followed by a malicious Managed Object Format file in the WMI directory, creating a sophisticated attack vector that leverages Windows management infrastructure for code execution. This method of exploitation demonstrates how seemingly simple file upload vulnerabilities can be escalated into complex attack chains that exploit legitimate system services. The Windows Management Instrumentation service becomes the execution vehicle for the payload, as it automatically processes .mof files placed in the WMI directory, executing the malicious code with SYSTEM privileges. The attack chain operates through the principle of privilege escalation by leveraging the service's elevated execution context, making the compromise particularly severe as it bypasses normal user permission boundaries.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple remote code execution, as it provides attackers with persistent access to compromised systems with the highest available privileges. The ability to execute code with SYSTEM privileges means that attackers can modify system files, install backdoors, establish persistence mechanisms, and potentially escalate their access to network-wide resources. This vulnerability essentially provides a foothold for comprehensive system compromise, enabling attackers to perform activities such as data exfiltration, credential harvesting, and further network reconnaissance without detection. The attack is particularly dangerous because it requires no authentication, making it accessible to anyone who can reach the vulnerable server, and the exploitation process is relatively straightforward for skilled attackers. According to ATT&CK framework technique T1059.007, this vulnerability enables command and script interpreter execution, while T1068 and T1078 demonstrate the privilege escalation and legitimate credentials usage aspects of the attack.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2013-10047 must address both immediate remediation and long-term security hardening measures. The most effective immediate solution involves upgrading to a patched version of MiniWeb HTTP Server or replacing the vulnerable software entirely, as this vulnerability affects legacy systems that are no longer supported. Organizations should implement strict file type validation and sanitization on all upload handlers, rejecting executable files and implementing proper path validation to prevent directory traversal attacks. Network segmentation and firewall rules should be configured to limit access to web servers, reducing the attack surface and preventing unauthorized access to vulnerable services. Additionally, implementing proper monitoring and logging of file upload activities can help detect suspicious patterns and provide early warning of attempted exploitation. System administrators should also ensure that legacy Windows systems are properly patched or decommissioned, as the vulnerability's effectiveness is specifically tied to older Windows versions that lack modern security protections. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be conducted to identify similar unrestricted upload vulnerabilities in other applications and services within the organization's infrastructure.