CVE-2016-10514 in Piwigo
Summary
by MITRE
url_check_format in include/functions.inc.php in Piwigo before 2.8.3 allows remote attackers to bypass intended access restrictions via a URL that contains a " character, or a URL beginning with a substring other than the http:// or https:// substring.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/03/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2016-10514 affects Piwigo versions prior to 2.8.3 and resides within the url_check_format function located in include/functions.inc.php. This flaw represents a critical access control bypass issue that undermines the security mechanisms designed to validate and restrict URL access within the photo gallery system. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization of URL parameters, creating opportunities for attackers to manipulate the application's access control logic through specifically crafted malicious URLs.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability exploits weaknesses in the URL validation routine where the url_check_format function fails to properly sanitize input containing double quote characters or URLs that do not begin with the expected http:// or https:// protocols. Attackers can leverage this by submitting malicious URLs that either contain quote characters or begin with alternative protocols that bypass the intended validation checks. This allows unauthorized access to restricted resources or functionality that should only be available to authenticated users with proper privileges. The flaw essentially creates a path for privilege escalation and unauthorized data access within the Piwigo application framework.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple access bypass to potentially enable more sophisticated attacks including arbitrary code execution, data exfiltration, or further exploitation of the underlying system. An attacker could construct URLs that circumvent access controls to view restricted albums, modify gallery settings, or access administrative functions. The vulnerability affects the core authentication and authorization mechanisms, potentially allowing attackers to gain elevated privileges or access sensitive user data. This represents a significant risk to organizations relying on Piwigo for photo gallery management, particularly those handling sensitive or confidential visual content.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2016-10514 require immediate patching of affected Piwigo installations to version 2.8.3 or later where the vulnerability has been addressed through proper input validation and sanitization. Organizations should implement comprehensive URL validation routines that strictly enforce protocol prefixes and sanitize all input parameters before processing. Network security controls including web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems should be configured to monitor for suspicious URL patterns and malformed requests. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-20 Improper Input Validation and CWE-287 Improper Authentication, and maps to ATT&CK techniques including T1190 Exploit Public-Facing Application and T1078 Valid Accounts to establish persistent access. Regular security audits and input validation testing should be implemented to prevent similar vulnerabilities in other components of the application stack.