CVE-2018-10469 in Symphony
Summary
by MITRE
b3log Symphony (aka Sym) 2.6.0 allows remote attackers to upload and execute arbitrary JSP files via the name[] parameter to the /upload URI.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/07/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-10469 affects b3log Symphony version 2.6.0, a Java-based web application framework that provides blogging and social networking capabilities. This security flaw represents a critical remote code execution vulnerability that allows attackers to upload and execute arbitrary Java Server Pages files through a manipulated parameter in the application's file upload functionality. The vulnerability specifically targets the /upload URI endpoint where the application processes file uploads without adequate validation or sanitization of input parameters.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and sanitization within the file upload mechanism. Attackers can exploit the name[] parameter to manipulate the file upload process, bypassing normal security controls that should prevent the execution of potentially malicious code. This flaw allows unauthorized individuals to upload JSP files containing malicious code that can be executed on the server, providing them with remote code execution capabilities. The vulnerability directly relates to CWE-434, which describes insecure file upload vulnerabilities where applications fail to properly validate file types and content, and also maps to CWE-94, representing insufficient validation of a file name or path, particularly in the context of web applications.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and far-reaching for organizations using affected versions of b3log Symphony. Remote attackers can gain full control over the affected server, potentially leading to data breaches, system compromise, and complete service disruption. The vulnerability enables attackers to establish persistent backdoors, exfiltrate sensitive data, and use the compromised server as a launch point for further attacks within the network infrastructure. This type of vulnerability is particularly dangerous in cloud environments or multi-tenant hosting scenarios where a single compromised application could affect multiple users or organizations. The attack vector is straightforward and requires minimal technical expertise, making it attractive to both skilled and less sophisticated threat actors.
Organizations should implement immediate mitigations to address this vulnerability, including applying the vendor-provided security patches or updates that resolve the file upload validation issues. Network segmentation and access controls should be strengthened to limit exposure of the affected application to untrusted networks. Implementing web application firewalls with rules specifically designed to detect and block malicious file upload attempts can provide additional protection layers. Security monitoring should include detection of unusual file upload activities and suspicious parameter manipulation patterns. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of following secure coding practices such as implementing strict file type validation, using random or sanitized file names, and implementing proper input sanitization techniques. Organizations should also consider implementing automated vulnerability scanning and penetration testing to identify similar issues in other applications within their infrastructure. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to T1190 (Exploit Public-Facing Application) and T1059.007 (Command and Scripting Interpreter: Java), demonstrating the multi-stage attack pattern that can be employed by adversaries leveraging such vulnerabilities.