CVE-2018-17364 in OTCMS
Summary
by MITRE
OTCMS 3.61 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via the accBackupDir parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/26/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-17364 affects OTCMS version 3.61, representing a critical remote code execution flaw that enables attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code on the target system. This vulnerability resides within the application's handling of the accBackupDir parameter, which is processed without adequate input validation or sanitization mechanisms. The flaw stems from improper parameter handling that allows malicious actors to inject and execute PHP code directly within the application's backup directory functionality, creating a severe security risk for systems running this specific version of the content management system.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability demonstrates a classic case of insecure input handling and code execution injection. When the accBackupDir parameter is submitted to the application, it undergoes insufficient validation that permits attackers to inject malicious PHP code snippets into the backup directory path. This weakness directly maps to CWE-94, which describes the execution of code that is not properly validated or sanitized, allowing attackers to execute arbitrary commands on the target system. The vulnerability exists because the application fails to properly escape or filter user-supplied input before incorporating it into system operations, particularly within the backup directory functionality where the code execution occurs.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is extremely severe, as it provides remote attackers with complete control over the affected system. Once exploited, attackers can execute arbitrary PHP code with the privileges of the web application, potentially leading to full system compromise, data theft, unauthorized access to sensitive information, and further lateral movement within the network. The remote nature of this vulnerability means that attackers do not require physical access or local network presence to exploit the flaw, making it particularly dangerous in environments where the application is accessible from the internet. This vulnerability can result in persistent backdoor access, data exfiltration, and complete system takeover, with potential cascading effects throughout the organization's infrastructure.
Organizations affected by this vulnerability should immediately implement multiple layers of mitigation strategies to protect their systems. The primary recommendation involves updating to the latest version of OTCMS that addresses this specific vulnerability, as the vendor has likely released patches or fixes. Additionally, implementing proper input validation and sanitization measures within the application code can help prevent similar issues in the future. Network-level protections such as web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems should be configured to monitor for suspicious parameter values in the accBackupDir field. Security teams should also conduct thorough penetration testing and vulnerability assessments to identify any potential exploitation attempts. The mitigation strategy should align with ATT&CK framework tactics related to privilege escalation and persistence, ensuring that defensive measures address both immediate exploitation prevention and long-term security posture improvement. Organizations should also consider implementing least privilege access controls and regular security audits to reduce the attack surface and limit potential damage from similar vulnerabilities.