CVE-2013-6332 in Algo One
Summary
by MITRE
Unrestricted file upload vulnerability in IBM Algo One UDS 4.7.0 through 5.0.0 allows remote authenticated users to execute arbitrary code by uploading a .jsp file and then launching it.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/28/2018
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2013-6332 represents a critical unrestricted file upload flaw within IBM Algo One UDS versions 4.7.0 through 5.0.0. This security weakness enables remote authenticated attackers to bypass file validation mechanisms and upload malicious files to the target system. The vulnerability specifically permits the upload of java server pages files with the .jsp extension, which when executed can provide attackers with arbitrary code execution capabilities on the affected server. The flaw stems from inadequate input validation and insufficient file type restrictions within the application's upload functionality, creating a pathway for malicious code deployment.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the exploitation of weak server-side validation controls that fail to properly verify file extensions, content types, or file contents before storing uploaded files. When authenticated users upload .jsp files, the system does not adequately sanitize these uploads, allowing the malicious code to be stored in the web root directory or application folders. This creates a persistent threat vector where attackers can subsequently access the uploaded files through web requests, executing the embedded malicious code with the privileges of the web server process. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-434, which specifically addresses unrestricted file uploads, and represents a common attack pattern that enables remote code execution through web application interfaces.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability presents significant risks to organizations utilizing IBM Algo One UDS systems, as it allows attackers to gain unauthorized access to server resources and potentially escalate privileges within the network. The authenticated nature of the attack means that adversaries must first obtain valid credentials, but once achieved, they can leverage this weakness to deploy web shells, backdoors, or other malicious payloads that can persist across system reboots. The impact extends beyond immediate code execution to include potential data exfiltration, system compromise, and lateral movement within the network infrastructure. Attackers can use this vulnerability to establish persistent access points and conduct extended reconnaissance activities.
Organizations should implement multiple layers of defense to mitigate this vulnerability effectively. The primary mitigation involves implementing strict file validation controls that reject uploads of executable file types, including .jsp, .asp, .php, and other scripting extensions. The system should enforce content-type checking, file extension validation, and file content analysis to prevent malicious uploads. Additionally, proper file permissions and directory separation should be implemented to ensure that uploaded files cannot be directly executed. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems to monitor for suspicious upload activities. The remediation process should include immediate patching of affected versions, implementation of proper access controls, and regular security assessments to identify similar vulnerabilities in other applications. This vulnerability demonstrates the importance of following secure coding practices and adhering to the principle of least privilege in web application development, as outlined in various security frameworks including those referenced in the ATT&CK framework's web application exploitation techniques.