CVE-2014-9155 in Avatar Uploader
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in the Avatar Uploader module 6.x-1.x before 6.x-1.2 and 7.x-1.x before 7.x-1.0-beta6 for Drupal allows remote authenticated users to read arbitrary files via a .. (dot dot) in the path of a cropped picture in the uploader panel.
Be aware that VulDB is the high quality source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/08/2018
The CVE-2014-9155 vulnerability represents a critical directory traversal flaw within the Avatar Uploader module for Drupal platforms, specifically affecting versions 6.x-1.x prior to 6.x-1.2 and 7.x-1.x prior to 7.x-1.0-beta6. This vulnerability resides in the file handling mechanisms of the avatar upload functionality, where the module fails to properly validate user-supplied file paths before processing cropped image uploads. The flaw allows authenticated users to manipulate file paths through the use of directory traversal sequences, specifically the .. (dot dot) notation, which enables them to navigate outside the intended directory boundaries and access arbitrary files on the server filesystem.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability exploits improper input validation within the avatar uploader's path processing logic. When users upload cropped pictures through the uploader panel, the module accepts file paths without adequate sanitization or validation of the .. sequences that could potentially allow attackers to traverse directories. This weakness stems from the module's failure to properly sanitize or filter user-controllable input parameters that determine the destination path for uploaded files. The vulnerability is classified as a directory traversal attack pattern that aligns with CWE-22, which specifically addresses improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal or directory traversal.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple file access, as it provides authenticated attackers with the ability to potentially read sensitive files that may contain database credentials, configuration settings, or other confidential information stored on the web server. Attackers could leverage this vulnerability to access system files, application configuration files, or even other user's data if the application has insufficient access controls. The fact that this vulnerability requires only authenticated access means that any user with valid credentials can exploit it, making it particularly dangerous in environments where user accounts are widely distributed or where account compromise is likely. This vulnerability directly maps to attack techniques described in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under the T1083 (File and Directory Discovery) and T1566 (Phishing) tactics, as it enables attackers to discover and access sensitive files that could be used for further exploitation.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2014-9155 primarily involve immediate patching of the affected Avatar Uploader module to versions 6.x-1.2 or 7.x-1.0-beta6, which contain the necessary security fixes to properly sanitize file paths. Organizations should also implement additional defensive measures including restricting file upload capabilities to only necessary file types, implementing proper input validation and sanitization at all points where user input influences file system operations, and applying principle of least privilege access controls to web application directories. Network monitoring should be enhanced to detect suspicious file access patterns, and regular security audits should be conducted to identify other potentially vulnerable components within the Drupal installation. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of input validation and proper access control mechanisms, highlighting the need for comprehensive security testing of all file handling operations within web applications.