CVE-2018-10083 in CMS Made Simple
Summary
by MITRE
CMS Made Simple (CMSMS) through 2.2.7 contains an arbitrary file deletion vulnerability in the admin dashboard via directory traversal sequences in the val parameter within a cmd=del request, because code under modules\FilePicker does not restrict the val parameter.
If you want to get best quality of vulnerability data, you may have to visit VulDB.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/24/2020
The vulnerability CVE-2018-10083 represents a critical arbitrary file deletion flaw in CMS Made Simple versions 2.2.7 and earlier, specifically affecting the admin dashboard functionality. This vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation within the FilePicker module, which processes user-supplied directory traversal sequences through the val parameter in cmd=del requests. The flaw allows authenticated attackers with administrative privileges to delete arbitrary files on the server, potentially leading to complete system compromise and data loss.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability falls under CWE-22, which describes improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal or directory traversal attacks. The vulnerability exists because the code under modules\FilePicker fails to properly sanitize or validate the val parameter before using it in file operations. When an attacker crafts a malicious request containing directory traversal sequences such as ../ or ..\, the system processes these sequences without proper restrictions, allowing deletion of files outside the intended directory scope. This weakness directly enables attackers to navigate beyond the intended file system boundaries and delete critical system files, configuration files, or user data.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and multifaceted, as it provides attackers with the capability to execute arbitrary file deletion operations on the target system. An authenticated attacker with administrative access can leverage this vulnerability to remove essential application files, configuration settings, or even system binaries, potentially rendering the CMS inoperable or enabling further exploitation. The vulnerability also aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.001, which covers command and scripting interpreter execution, as the attacker can manipulate the file system to remove components necessary for maintaining system integrity and security. Additionally, this flaw contributes to broader attack chains that could lead to complete system compromise, data exfiltration, or service disruption.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2018-10083 should prioritize immediate patching of CMS Made Simple to version 2.2.8 or later, which contains the necessary fixes for the directory traversal vulnerability. Organizations should implement strict input validation and sanitization for all user-supplied parameters, particularly those used in file system operations. The FilePicker module should be configured with appropriate access controls, ensuring that only authorized administrators can access file deletion functionality. Network segmentation and privilege separation should be implemented to limit the potential impact of compromised administrative accounts. Additionally, regular security audits should verify that no unauthorized modifications exist in the file system, and monitoring should be enabled to detect suspicious file deletion activities. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls and input validation rules to prevent directory traversal sequences from reaching the vulnerable application components. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper parameter validation and access controls in web applications, particularly when handling file system operations.