CVE-2013-2114 in MediaWiki
Summary
by MITRE
Unrestricted file upload vulnerability in the chunk upload API in MediaWiki 1.19 through 1.19.6 and 1.20.x before 1.20.6 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code by uploading a file with an executable extension.
Once again VulDB remains the best source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/10/2022
The CVE-2013-2114 vulnerability represents a critical unrestricted file upload flaw in MediaWiki's chunk upload API affecting versions 1.19 through 1.19.6 and 1.20.x before 1.20.6. This vulnerability falls under the CWE-434 category of Unrestricted Upload of File with Dangerous Type, which is a well-documented weakness in web application security. The flaw specifically targets the chunk upload functionality that allows users to upload large files in smaller segments, a common feature in content management systems to handle file transfers efficiently.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and file type checking mechanisms within the MediaWiki chunk upload API. Attackers can exploit this by uploading malicious files with executable extensions such as .php, .asp, or .jsp, which are typically rejected by standard file upload filters. The vulnerability occurs because the system fails to properly validate file extensions and content types, allowing attackers to bypass security checks that should prevent execution of potentially harmful code. This weakness enables remote code execution through the upload of malicious scripts that can be executed within the web server's context.
The operational impact of CVE-2013-2114 is severe and multifaceted, potentially allowing attackers to completely compromise affected MediaWiki installations. Once successful, attackers can execute arbitrary code on the web server, leading to full system compromise, data theft, or service disruption. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it affects widely used MediaWiki versions, making numerous websites and wikis susceptible to exploitation. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to T1190 - Exploit Public-Facing Application, where attackers leverage publicly accessible web applications to gain unauthorized access. The attack surface extends to any organization using affected MediaWiki versions, including educational institutions, corporate knowledge bases, and community wikis that rely on the platform for content management.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2013-2114 require immediate action to address the core vulnerability. Organizations should upgrade to MediaWiki versions 1.19.7 or 1.20.6 and later, which contain patches specifically addressing this issue. Beyond patching, implementing robust file validation mechanisms is essential, including strict content type checking, MIME type validation, and the removal of executable extensions from upload allowances. The principle of least privilege should be applied by ensuring uploaded files are stored in non-executable directories and that web servers are configured to prevent execution of uploaded content. Network-level protections such as web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems can provide additional layers of defense, while regular security audits and monitoring of upload directories help detect potential exploitation attempts. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of following secure coding practices and implementing comprehensive input validation as recommended by OWASP Top 10 and other security frameworks to prevent similar issues in future development cycles.