CVE-2017-14840 in TicketPlus
Summary
by MITRE
TeamWork TicketPlus allows Arbitrary File Upload in updateProfile.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/09/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-14840 affects TeamWork TicketPlus software, specifically within the updateProfile functionality that permits arbitrary file upload capabilities. This represents a critical security flaw that enables unauthorized users to upload malicious files to the target system, potentially leading to remote code execution or complete system compromise. The vulnerability exists due to insufficient input validation and access control measures within the profile update mechanism, allowing attackers to bypass normal file upload restrictions and execute arbitrary code on the affected server.
This vulnerability falls under the category of CWE-434, which describes "Unrestricted Upload of File with Dangerous Type" and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190, "Exploit Public-Facing Application." The flaw manifests when the application fails to properly validate file types, file extensions, or file contents during the profile update process. Attackers can exploit this by crafting malicious files with extensions that are not properly filtered, or by manipulating the upload process to bypass validation checks. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it occurs within a functionality that is typically accessible to authenticated users, making it easier to exploit compared to vulnerabilities requiring initial access through external attack vectors.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-14840 extends beyond simple file upload capabilities, as it can lead to complete system compromise and data exfiltration. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability can upload web shells, malware, or other malicious executables that persist on the server, providing them with ongoing access to the compromised system. The attack surface is broad since the updateProfile functionality is likely used by multiple users, increasing the potential for successful exploitation. Organizations may face regulatory compliance issues, data breaches, and reputational damage if this vulnerability is exploited, particularly in environments where sensitive information is processed or stored.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should include implementing robust file type validation, restricting file upload capabilities to specific safe extensions, and enforcing strict access controls on profile update functions. Organizations should deploy web application firewalls to monitor and filter suspicious file upload attempts, while also implementing proper input sanitization and output encoding. The recommended approach involves validating file content rather than relying solely on file extensions, implementing proper file permissions, and ensuring that uploaded files are stored in non-executable directories. Additionally, regular security assessments, code reviews, and vulnerability scanning should be conducted to identify and remediate similar issues in other application components, following industry standards such as those outlined in the OWASP Top Ten and NIST cybersecurity frameworks.