CVE-2014-0342 in PivotX
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple unrestricted file upload vulnerabilities in fileupload.php in PivotX before 2.3.9 allow remote authenticated users to execute arbitrary PHP code by uploading a file with a (1) .php or (2) .php# extension, and then accessing it via unspecified vectors.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/10/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2014-0342 represents a critical unrestricted file upload flaw in PivotX content management system versions prior to 2.3.9. This vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization mechanisms within the fileupload.php component, which fails to properly restrict file types and extensions that users can upload to the server. The flaw specifically affects authenticated users who possess the ability to access the file upload functionality, creating a pathway for remote code execution through malicious file uploads.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs when authenticated users upload files with specific extensions including .php or .php# which are then stored on the web server without proper validation. The .php# extension serves as a clever bypass technique that exploits how web servers and file systems handle file extensions, potentially allowing the uploaded PHP code to execute before the server can properly process the file name. This vulnerability falls under CWE-434 which specifically addresses Unrestricted Upload of File with Dangerous Type, a category that encompasses the dangerous practice of allowing users to upload executable code without proper sanitization.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and multifaceted, as it enables attackers to gain full control over the affected web server. Once an attacker successfully uploads a malicious PHP file, they can execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the web server process, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The unspecified vectors mentioned in the description suggest that the attack surface extends beyond simple file uploads, potentially including various access patterns and server configurations that may allow the uploaded code to execute. This vulnerability directly maps to attack techniques in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under T1190 - Exploit Public-Facing Application and T1059 - Command and Scripting Interpreter, where adversaries leverage web application vulnerabilities to execute malicious code.
The exploitation of this vulnerability requires minimal prerequisites beyond having valid authentication credentials for the PivotX system, making it particularly dangerous in environments where user access is not properly segmented. The vulnerability's persistence is enhanced by the fact that uploaded files remain on the server until manually removed, providing attackers with sustained access to the compromised system. Organizations running affected versions of PivotX are particularly vulnerable during routine maintenance periods when administrators may be less vigilant about monitoring file upload activities, and the attack can remain undetected for extended periods.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2014-0342 must address both immediate remediation and long-term architectural improvements. The primary solution involves upgrading to PivotX version 2.3.9 or later, which includes proper file extension validation and sanitization mechanisms. Additionally, administrators should implement strict file type validation that rejects executable file extensions, employ proper file naming conventions that prevent extension manipulation, and ensure that uploaded files are stored outside the web root directory. Network segmentation and access controls should be implemented to limit the scope of potential damage, while regular security monitoring and log analysis should be employed to detect suspicious file upload activities. The implementation of web application firewalls and content delivery network protections can provide additional layers of defense against similar vulnerabilities, aligning with security best practices outlined in NIST SP 800-53 and ISO 27001 frameworks for web application security.