CVE-2017-14838 in Job Links
Summary
by MITRE
TeamWork Job Links allows Arbitrary File Upload in profileChange and coverChange.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/07/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-14838 resides within TeamWork Job Links software, specifically targeting the profileChange and coverChange functionality components. This arbitrary file upload flaw represents a critical security weakness that enables attackers to upload malicious files to the target system without proper authentication or authorization. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and access control mechanisms within the file upload handlers, allowing unauthorized users to bypass security restrictions and execute potentially harmful code on the affected system. The issue manifests when the application fails to properly validate file types, extensions, or content during the upload process, creating an exploitable pathway for remote code execution and system compromise.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the absence of proper file type validation and sanitization within the profileChange and coverChange endpoints. Attackers can exploit this by uploading files with dangerous extensions such as .jsp, .php, .asp, or .aspx that can be executed on the web server. The flaw operates at the application layer, specifically within the file handling mechanisms of TeamWork Job Links, making it particularly dangerous as it can be leveraged from remote locations without requiring physical access to the system. This vulnerability directly aligns with CWE-434 which describes insecure file upload vulnerabilities where applications accept untrusted data without proper validation, and it maps to ATT&CK technique T1190 which covers Exploit Public-Facing Application by targeting web application vulnerabilities.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized file uploads, as it can lead to complete system compromise and persistent backdoor access. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability can upload malicious web shells or other payloads that allow for remote command execution, data exfiltration, and lateral movement within the network. The affected system may experience unauthorized access to sensitive user data, modification of critical system files, and potential disruption of business operations. Organizations using TeamWork Job Links may face significant security breaches, regulatory compliance violations, and financial losses due to the exposure of this vulnerability. The impact is particularly severe for organizations that rely on TeamWork Job Links for project management and collaboration, as the compromise could affect multiple users and projects simultaneously.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-14838 should include immediate patch application from the vendor, which would typically involve implementing proper input validation and access control mechanisms. Organizations must ensure that all file upload handlers validate file types against a strict whitelist of approved extensions and content. The implementation of proper file naming conventions, including randomization of filenames, can prevent attackers from predicting or accessing uploaded files directly. Network segmentation and firewall rules should be configured to restrict access to upload endpoints, while additional monitoring and logging should be enabled to detect suspicious upload activities. Security headers should be implemented to prevent automatic execution of uploaded files, and regular security assessments should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other application components. The remediation process must also include user access controls and authentication mechanisms to ensure that only authorized personnel can access the profileChange and coverChange functionalities, thereby reducing the attack surface and preventing unauthorized exploitation of the vulnerability.