CVE-2016-10758 in PHPKIT
Summary
by MITRE
PHPKIT 1.6.6 allows arbitrary File Upload, as demonstrated by a .php file to pkinc/admin/mediaarchive.php and pkinc/func/default.php via the image_name parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/24/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2016-10758 represents a critical arbitrary file upload flaw in PHPKIT version 1.6.6, a content management system that was widely used for web publishing and administration. This vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and improper file handling mechanisms within the application's media archive functionality, creating a pathway for remote attackers to execute malicious code on affected systems. The flaw specifically manifests in the pkinc/admin/mediaarchive.php and pkinc/func/default.php files where the image_name parameter fails to properly validate file extensions or content, allowing attackers to upload potentially harmful files with php extensions.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the application's failure to implement proper file type checking and sanitization processes. When users upload media files through the administrative interface, the system accepts the image_name parameter without adequate validation of the file extension or content type. This creates a scenario where an attacker can craft a malicious file with a .php extension and upload it to the server, effectively bypassing the intended file upload restrictions. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it allows for the execution of arbitrary code within the context of the web application, potentially enabling attackers to gain unauthorized access to the underlying system.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability exposes affected organizations to significant security risks including remote code execution, data compromise, and potential system takeover. Attackers can leverage this flaw to upload web shells, backdoors, or other malicious scripts that provide persistent access to the compromised system. The vulnerability affects the core administrative functionality of PHPKIT, making it particularly concerning as it allows attackers to manipulate the content management system directly. According to CWE classification, this represents a weakness categorized under CWE-434: Unrestricted Upload of File with Dangerous Type, which is a well-documented pattern that frequently leads to system compromise in web applications.
The exploitation of this vulnerability aligns with several tactics described in the MITRE ATT&CK framework, particularly those related to initial access and execution phases. Attackers can use this flaw as part of a broader attack chain to establish a foothold within the target environment, potentially escalating privileges and moving laterally through the network. The vulnerability's impact extends beyond immediate code execution to include potential data exfiltration and persistence mechanisms that attackers can implement through the uploaded malicious files. Organizations running PHPKIT 1.6.6 are particularly vulnerable as this version predates many security improvements and does not include proper input validation or file type restrictions that would prevent such attacks.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate implementation of multiple security controls to protect affected systems. Organizations should apply the vendor-provided security patches or upgrade to a supported version of PHPKIT that addresses the file upload validation issues. Additionally, implementing proper file type validation, restricting file upload directories, and configuring web server restrictions to prevent execution of uploaded files are essential defensive measures. Network segmentation and monitoring for unusual file upload activities can help detect exploitation attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of input validation and proper file handling in web applications, aligning with security best practices outlined in OWASP Top Ten and other industry standards that emphasize the need for robust sanitization of user inputs to prevent code injection and arbitrary file upload attacks.