CVE-2015-9228 in NextGEN Gallery
Summary
by MITRE
In post-new.php in the Photocrati NextGEN Gallery plugin 2.1.10 for WordPress, unrestricted file upload is available via the name parameter, if a file extension is changed from .jpg to .php.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/28/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2015-9228 represents a critical security flaw within the Photocrati NextGEN Gallery plugin version 2.1.10 for WordPress platforms. This issue stems from inadequate input validation and file extension handling mechanisms that allow malicious actors to bypass security restrictions intended to prevent arbitrary file uploads. The vulnerability specifically targets the post-new.php script which processes image uploads through the name parameter, creating a pathway for attackers to execute malicious code on vulnerable systems. The flaw manifests when an attacker modifies a file extension from .jpg to .php, effectively circumventing the plugin's intended file type validation controls.
This vulnerability falls under the CWE-434 category of Unrestricted Upload of File with Dangerous Type, which is classified as a critical weakness in software security. The issue enables attackers to upload potentially malicious PHP files that can be executed on the web server, providing them with remote code execution capabilities. The flaw represents a classic example of insufficient validation of file types and extensions, where the application fails to properly verify the actual content of uploaded files rather than relying solely on file extension checks. From an attack perspective, this vulnerability directly aligns with techniques described in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under the T1190 category of Exploit Public-Facing Application, specifically targeting web application vulnerabilities that allow arbitrary file upload capabilities.
The operational impact of CVE-2015-9228 extends beyond simple unauthorized file uploads, as it provides attackers with persistent access to compromised systems. Once an attacker successfully uploads a malicious PHP file, they can execute arbitrary commands on the web server, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The vulnerability affects WordPress installations that use the specific version of the NextGEN Gallery plugin, making it particularly dangerous in environments where multiple WordPress sites are hosted on the same server. The security implications include potential data breaches, system hijacking, and the establishment of persistent backdoors that can be used for ongoing malicious activities. Organizations running vulnerable systems face significant risks including unauthorized access to sensitive data, service disruption, and potential compliance violations due to security breaches.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate action including updating to a patched version of the Photocrati NextGEN Gallery plugin, implementing proper file type validation mechanisms, and restricting file upload capabilities to authenticated users only. Security administrators should also consider implementing additional layers of protection such as web application firewalls that can detect and block suspicious file upload attempts. The recommended approach includes configuring the web server to reject executable file uploads, implementing proper file extension validation, and ensuring that uploaded files are stored in non-executable directories. Organizations should also conduct thorough security audits of their WordPress installations to identify other potential vulnerabilities and ensure that all plugins and themes are kept up to date with the latest security patches. Regular monitoring and logging of file upload activities can help detect suspicious behavior and provide early warning of potential exploitation attempts.