CVE-2018-14334 in joyplus-cms
Summary
by MITRE
manager/editor/upload.php in joyplus-cms 1.6.0 allows arbitrary file upload because detection of a prohibited file extension simply sets the $errm value, and does not otherwise alter the flow of control. Consequently, one can upload and execute a .php file, a similar issue to CVE-2018-8766.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/09/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-14334 affects joyplus-cms version 1.6.0 and resides within the manager/editor/upload.php component. This represents a critical security flaw that stems from inadequate input validation and flawed access control mechanisms. The vulnerability manifests when the application attempts to validate file extensions but fails to properly enforce the restrictions, creating a path for malicious actors to bypass security measures.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability demonstrates a classic case of insecure file upload functionality where the application performs a check on file extensions but only sets an error message variable without terminating the upload process. This design flaw allows attackers to upload PHP files despite the presence of security checks that should prevent such uploads. The detection mechanism exists but operates without proper control flow management, meaning that even when prohibited extensions are identified, the application continues processing the upload request.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability creates a severe risk for systems running joyplus-cms 1.6.0 as it enables remote code execution capabilities. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability can upload malicious PHP scripts that will execute within the context of the web server, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The impact extends beyond simple file upload manipulation since the uploaded PHP files can execute arbitrary commands on the server, allowing for data exfiltration, privilege escalation, and further network infiltration.
The vulnerability aligns with CWE-434 which specifically addresses "Unrestricted Upload of File with Dangerous Type" and represents a subset of the broader category of insecure file handling vulnerabilities. This weakness directly relates to ATT&CK technique T1190 which covers "Exploit Public-Facing Application" and T1059 which addresses "Command and Scripting Interpreter" as attackers can execute commands through the uploaded PHP files. The similarity to CVE-2018-8766 demonstrates a recurring pattern in CMS vulnerabilities where file upload validation is insufficiently implemented.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on implementing proper input validation and access control measures. The most effective approach involves rejecting file uploads immediately when prohibited extensions are detected rather than merely setting error messages. Security controls should include comprehensive file type validation, proper content type checking, and the implementation of a whitelist-based approach for allowed file extensions. Additionally, uploaded files should be stored outside the web root directory and executed with minimal privileges to limit potential damage from successful exploits. Regular security audits and automated vulnerability scanning should be implemented to identify similar issues in other components of the application.