CVE-2016-2914 in Rational Publishing Engine
Summary
by MITRE
Unrestricted file upload vulnerability in the Document Builder in IBM Rational Publishing Engine (aka RPENG) 2.0.1 before ifix002 allows remote authenticated users to execute arbitrary code by specifying an unexpected file extension.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/25/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2016-2914 represents a critical unrestricted file upload flaw within IBM Rational Publishing Engine version 2.0.1, prior to the application of ifix002 patch. This weakness resides in the Document Builder component of the publishing engine, which is designed to facilitate content creation and document generation for software development documentation. The vulnerability specifically targets the file validation mechanisms that should prevent users from uploading potentially malicious files to the system. Attackers exploiting this flaw can bypass normal file type restrictions by using unexpected file extensions, thereby enabling them to upload executable code or malicious scripts to the server.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization within the Document Builder functionality. When authenticated users attempt to upload files through the publishing engine interface, the system fails to properly verify file extensions against a comprehensive whitelist of allowed types. This oversight allows attackers to append unexpected extensions to their malicious files, effectively circumventing the intended security controls. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-434 Unrestricted Upload of File with Dangerous Type, which specifically addresses scenarios where applications permit file uploads without proper validation of file types and content. This weakness creates a direct pathway for arbitrary code execution, as the system processes and stores the uploaded files without adequate security checks.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation, as it enables remote code execution capabilities that can compromise entire server environments. An authenticated attacker with access to the publishing engine can upload malicious files that will be executed in the context of the web server process, potentially leading to complete system compromise. This vulnerability affects organizations using IBM Rational Publishing Engine for software documentation, particularly those with web-facing publishing interfaces. The attack vector requires only authentication credentials, making it accessible to both internal users with legitimate access and potential attackers who have obtained valid credentials through social engineering or other means. The vulnerability's exploitation can result in data breaches, system infiltration, and unauthorized access to sensitive development documentation.
Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including applying the ifix002 patch provided by IBM to address the vulnerability. Additional defensive measures should include implementing strict file type validation, establishing comprehensive file extension whitelisting, and configuring proper file upload restrictions within the web application. The implementation of Content Security Policies and regular security scanning of uploaded files can further reduce the risk of exploitation. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to T1059 Command and Scripting Interpreter and T1190 Exploit Public-Facing Application, highlighting the execution and exploitation aspects of the threat. Organizations should also conduct regular security assessments and implement proper access controls to limit the impact of potential exploitation. The vulnerability underscores the importance of secure file handling practices and the necessity of validating all user-supplied content before processing or storage.