CVE-2017-14841 in Mojoomla Annual Maintenance Contract
Summary
by MITRE
Mojoomla Annual Maintenance Contract (AMC) Management System allows Arbitrary File Upload in profilesetting image handling.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/11/2025
The Mojoomla Annual Maintenance Contract AMC Management System presents a critical security vulnerability through its profile setting image handling functionality that permits arbitrary file upload attacks. This vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and improper file type checking mechanisms within the system's image upload processing pipeline. The flaw exists in the profile setting module where users can upload profile images without adequate restrictions on file extensions, content types, or file attributes. Attackers can exploit this weakness by uploading malicious files with extensions that bypass standard validation checks, potentially including web shells or other malicious payloads disguised as legitimate image files.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the system's failure to properly validate file content against expected image formats during the upload process. When users attempt to update their profile images, the application accepts files based primarily on extension matching rather than content verification, creating a path for attackers to execute arbitrary code on the target server. This type of vulnerability falls under the Common Weakness Enumeration category CWE-434, which specifically addresses Unrestricted Upload of File with Dangerous Type. The weakness occurs at the application level where the system fails to implement proper file validation controls that should prevent malicious files from being stored or executed within the application environment.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability provides attackers with a potential entry point for executing malicious code on the web server hosting the AMC system. Successful exploitation could lead to complete system compromise, allowing attackers to execute commands, access sensitive data, or establish persistent backdoors within the organization's infrastructure. The vulnerability affects the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the system, as attackers can potentially exfiltrate sensitive customer information, modify system configurations, or disrupt normal business operations. The attack surface is particularly concerning given that the AMC system likely contains sensitive client data and maintenance records that would be valuable to cybercriminals.
The exploitation of this vulnerability aligns with tactics described in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under the T1190 technique for Exploit Public-Facing Application, where attackers target weaknesses in web applications to gain initial access to target systems. Organizations using this system face significant risk as the vulnerability allows for remote code execution without requiring authentication, making it particularly dangerous for publicly accessible web applications. The attack chain typically involves uploading a malicious file through the profile image upload functionality, followed by triggering the execution of the uploaded payload through subsequent system interactions or direct access to the uploaded file.
Mitigation strategies should include implementing strict file validation mechanisms that check both file extensions and actual file content using proper MIME type detection and file signature verification. Organizations must enforce whitelist-based file type restrictions and implement proper file naming conventions that prevent executable files from being stored in web-accessible directories. Additional protective measures include configuring proper file permissions, implementing secure file upload libraries, and conducting regular security testing including dynamic application security testing. The system should also be updated with proper input sanitization routines that validate file attributes beyond simple extension matching and implement proper logging and monitoring for suspicious upload activities to detect potential exploitation attempts.