CVE-2014-2867 in Commonspot Content Server
Summary
by MITRE
Unrestricted file upload vulnerability in PaperThin CommonSpot before 7.0.2 and 8.x before 8.0.3 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code by uploading a ColdFusion page, and then accessing it via unspecified vectors.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/10/2026
The CVE-2014-2867 vulnerability represents a critical unrestricted file upload flaw in PaperThin CommonSpot content management system that affected versions prior to 7.0.2 and 8.x prior to 8.0.3. This vulnerability resides in the file upload functionality of the application, creating a pathway for remote attackers to bypass security controls and gain unauthorized execution capabilities. The flaw specifically enables attackers to upload malicious files with ColdFusion page extensions, which can then be executed on the target system. This type of vulnerability is classified under CWE-434, which focuses on unrestricted file upload or file type validation issues that can lead to arbitrary code execution. The vulnerability operates by exploiting insufficient input validation and sanitization mechanisms within the file upload process, allowing attackers to bypass checks that should prevent the upload of potentially harmful file types.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability requires an attacker to successfully upload a malicious ColdFusion file to the target system through the vulnerable file upload functionality. Once uploaded, the attacker can access the file through unspecified vectors that typically involve navigating to the file's location within the web application's directory structure. The ColdFusion page extension provides attackers with a legitimate execution environment on the server, as ColdFusion servers are designed to process and execute .cfm files. This creates a direct path for code execution, allowing attackers to run arbitrary commands on the affected system with the privileges of the web application. The vulnerability's impact extends beyond simple file upload, as it essentially provides attackers with a backdoor for persistent access and further exploitation of the compromised environment.
The operational impact of CVE-2014-2867 is severe and multifaceted, encompassing potential complete system compromise, data exfiltration, and service disruption. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to establish persistent access, deploy additional malware, or use the compromised system as a launch point for further attacks within the network infrastructure. The vulnerability's remote nature means that attackers do not require physical access or local credentials to exploit it, making it particularly dangerous in environments where network exposure is high. Organizations using affected versions of PaperThin CommonSpot face significant risks including unauthorized data access, system integrity compromise, and potential regulatory compliance violations. The vulnerability also aligns with several tactics in the MITRE ATT&CK framework, specifically covering techniques related to initial access through web application exploitation and privilege escalation through code execution.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2014-2867 should focus on immediate patching of affected systems to the recommended versions 7.0.2 and 8.0.3, which contain the necessary security fixes. Organizations should implement robust file type validation and sanitization measures that prevent upload of executable file types, particularly those associated with server-side scripting languages like ColdFusion, Java, ASP, and PHP. Additional protective measures include implementing proper file upload restrictions such as changing file extensions to non-executable formats, using secure file storage locations outside the web root, and implementing content validation checks that analyze file contents rather than relying solely on file extensions. Network-level protections such as web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems can provide additional layers of defense. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be conducted to identify and remediate similar vulnerabilities in other applications and systems. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of adhering to secure coding practices and implementing defense-in-depth strategies that reduce the attack surface and limit the potential impact of successful exploitation attempts.