CVE-2015-6567 in Wolf
Summary
by MITRE
Wolf CMS before 0.8.3.1 allows unrestricted file upload and PHP Code Execution because admin/plugin/file_manager/browse/ (aka the filemanager) does not validate the parameter "filename" properly. Exploitation requires a registered user who has access to upload functionality.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/07/2025
The vulnerability described in CVE-2015-6567 represents a critical security flaw in Wolf CMS versions prior to 0.8.3.1 that enables unauthorized file uploads and potential remote code execution. This vulnerability resides within the administrative plugin file manager component, specifically in the browse functionality that handles file operations. The flaw stems from inadequate input validation of the filename parameter, which allows attackers to bypass security restrictions and upload malicious files to the server. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it requires only a registered user account with upload privileges, making it exploitable by authenticated attackers who may have limited administrative rights. The impact extends beyond simple file upload capabilities as the vulnerability can potentially lead to complete system compromise through PHP code execution.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-434, which describes "Unrestricted Upload of File with Dangerous Type." The file manager component fails to properly validate or sanitize the filename parameter, allowing malicious users to upload files with extensions that could be executed as PHP code. This validation failure creates an attack surface where uploaded files can be directly accessed and executed by the web server, bypassing normal security controls. The vulnerability specifically affects the admin/plugin/file_manager/browse/ endpoint, which serves as the primary interface for managing uploaded files within the CMS. Attackers can exploit this by uploading malicious PHP files with seemingly benign extensions or by leveraging the system's inability to properly validate file types and content, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution on the target server.
The operational impact of CVE-2015-6567 is significant for organizations using vulnerable versions of Wolf CMS, as it provides a pathway for attackers to gain persistent access to their web applications. Once exploited, the vulnerability can enable attackers to upload web shells, backdoors, or other malicious payloads that can be used for data exfiltration, system reconnaissance, or further exploitation of the network. The requirement for only a registered user account with upload access means that this vulnerability can be exploited by insiders or compromised user accounts, making it particularly dangerous in environments where user access controls are not properly enforced. The attack vector demonstrates characteristics consistent with ATT&CK technique T1190, which involves gaining access through exploitation of a remote service, and T1078, which covers legitimate credentials use for persistence. Organizations may face complete system compromise, data loss, and potential regulatory compliance violations if this vulnerability is exploited.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2015-6567 should prioritize immediate patching of affected Wolf CMS installations to version 0.8.3.1 or later, which contains the necessary security fixes. Organizations should implement strict file type validation and sanitization for all uploaded content, ensuring that only safe file extensions are permitted and that uploaded files are stored outside the web root directory. Network segmentation and access control measures should be enforced to limit user privileges and prevent unauthorized access to administrative functions. Regular security audits and penetration testing should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other components of the web application stack. Additional protective measures include implementing web application firewalls, monitoring file upload activities, and establishing incident response procedures for potential exploitation attempts. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the importance of proper input validation and the principle of least privilege in web application security, emphasizing the need for comprehensive security controls throughout the application lifecycle.