CVE-2013-2138 in Menalto
Summary
by MITRE
The (1) uploadify and (2) flowplayer SWF files in Gallery 3 before 3.0.8 do not properly remove query parameters and fragments, which allows remote attackers to have an unspecified impact via a replay attack.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/08/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2013-2138 affects Gallery 3 versions prior to 3.0.8 and specifically targets the uploadify and flowplayer SWF files within the application. This security flaw stems from improper handling of URL components during file upload processes, creating a potential vector for malicious actors to exploit. The issue manifests when these SWF files fail to adequately sanitize query parameters and fragments from URLs, leaving the system susceptible to various forms of attack that can compromise the integrity and confidentiality of uploaded content.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the SWF files not properly stripping or encoding URL components before processing uploaded files. When attackers craft malicious URLs containing query parameters or fragments, these elements persist in the upload process and can be replayed by attackers to manipulate the system behavior. This flaw allows for replay attacks where previously valid requests can be reused to gain unauthorized access or modify system behavior. The vulnerability specifically impacts the upload functionality and represents a failure in input validation and URL sanitization practices within the media handling components of Gallery 3.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized access, potentially enabling attackers to manipulate the upload process in ways that could compromise system integrity and data security. Attackers could leverage the persistent query parameters and fragments to perform actions such as bypassing authentication mechanisms, accessing restricted resources, or modifying upload behavior to redirect files to unintended destinations. The unspecified impact mentioned in the CVE description suggests that the consequences could vary depending on the specific implementation and system configuration, potentially ranging from data exposure to full system compromise. This vulnerability particularly affects web applications that rely on SWF-based media handling components for file uploads and media processing.
Security professionals should address this vulnerability by upgrading to Gallery 3 version 3.0.8 or later, which includes proper URL sanitization and query parameter handling for the affected SWF files. Additionally, implementing proper input validation and URL sanitization practices throughout the application can mitigate similar vulnerabilities. Organizations should conduct thorough security assessments of their media handling components and ensure that all URL components are properly validated and sanitized before processing. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-20, which addresses improper input validation, and could potentially map to ATT&CK techniques involving command and control communications or credential access through manipulated file upload processes. Regular security updates and patch management procedures should be implemented to prevent similar vulnerabilities from affecting other components of the application stack.