CVE-2017-1000194 in October
Summary
by MITRE
October CMS build 412 is vulnerable to Apache configuration modification via file upload functionality resulting in site compromise and possibly other applications on the server.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/08/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-1000194 affects October CMS version 412 and represents a critical security flaw that exploits the file upload functionality to manipulate Apache configuration files. This vulnerability falls under the category of configuration manipulation attacks that can lead to complete system compromise. The flaw allows attackers to upload malicious files that can modify the Apache web server configuration, potentially enabling them to execute arbitrary code on the server. The issue stems from insufficient input validation and access controls within the file upload mechanism, creating an avenue for privilege escalation and persistent access to the affected system.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through the manipulation of Apache configuration files via the file upload functionality. When users upload files to the October CMS system, the application fails to properly validate or sanitize the uploaded content, particularly when dealing with files that could contain Apache configuration directives. Attackers can leverage this weakness by uploading specially crafted files that, when processed by the web server, modify the Apache configuration to include malicious directives. This modification can enable attackers to execute arbitrary code, change directory permissions, or even gain shell access to the server. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it can affect not only the October CMS application but potentially other applications running on the same Apache server instance, creating a broader attack surface.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-1000194 is severe and multifaceted, encompassing data compromise, system availability disruption, and potential lateral movement within network environments. Once successfully exploited, the vulnerability can lead to complete compromise of the affected October CMS installation, allowing attackers to access sensitive user data, modify website content, and potentially use the compromised server as a launching point for attacks against other systems. The configuration modification capability means that attackers can establish persistent backdoors, modify security settings, and maintain long-term access to the compromised environment. This vulnerability aligns with attack patterns described in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under the T1190 technique for exploiting vulnerabilities in web applications, and it specifically relates to CWE-434 which addresses insecure file upload handling.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-1000194 should focus on immediate patching and implementation of multiple defensive layers. The primary remediation involves upgrading to a patched version of October CMS that addresses the file upload validation issues and implements proper input sanitization for Apache configuration files. Organizations should also implement strict file type validation and content inspection for all uploaded files, ensuring that only safe file extensions are accepted and that file contents are verified against expected formats. Additional security measures include restricting write permissions on Apache configuration directories, implementing web application firewalls to detect and block malicious upload attempts, and conducting regular security audits of uploaded content. Network segmentation and monitoring of file upload activities can help detect potential exploitation attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper input validation and access control mechanisms, aligning with security best practices outlined in NIST SP 800-160 and ISO 27001 standards for secure application development and deployment.