CVE-2019-13976 in Chat
Summary
by MITRE
eGain Chat 15.0.3 allows unrestricted file upload.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/11/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2019-13976 affects eGain Chat version 15.0.3 and represents a critical security flaw that permits unrestricted file upload capabilities within the application. This vulnerability stems from insufficient validation and sanitization of file uploads, allowing malicious actors to bypass security controls and upload arbitrary files to the server. The issue creates a pathway for remote code execution and system compromise, making it particularly dangerous for organizations relying on this customer service platform. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-434 which specifically addresses unrestricted upload of file with dangerous type, a well-documented weakness in web application security frameworks.
The technical implementation of this flaw occurs when the application fails to properly validate file types, extensions, or content during the upload process. Attackers can exploit this by uploading malicious files such as php, aspx, or other script files that can be executed on the web server. The vulnerability exists due to inadequate input validation mechanisms and potentially missing file type whitelisting controls. When users upload files through the chat interface, the system does not adequately verify that the uploaded content matches the expected file types, allowing attackers to bypass security measures that should restrict file uploads to safe formats only. This weakness aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190 which describes the use of web shells and file upload capabilities for persistence and execution.
The operational impact of CVE-2019-13976 is severe and multifaceted, potentially allowing attackers to gain full control over the affected server. Successful exploitation could result in data breaches, system compromise, and unauthorized access to sensitive customer information. Organizations using eGain Chat 15.0.3 may face regulatory compliance violations, financial losses, and reputational damage due to the potential for widespread exploitation. The vulnerability can be leveraged for various attack vectors including web shell deployment, privilege escalation, and lateral movement within the network. Additionally, the compromised system may serve as a staging ground for further attacks, making this vulnerability particularly dangerous in enterprise environments.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should include immediate implementation of file type validation and content verification mechanisms. Organizations should deploy proper file upload restrictions that enforce whitelisting of acceptable file types and implement strict content scanning for uploaded files. The system should validate file extensions, MIME types, and file content to prevent execution of malicious payloads. Security patches and updates from eGain should be applied immediately to address the vulnerability, while network segmentation and monitoring controls should be implemented to detect suspicious upload activities. Regular security assessments and penetration testing should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other applications and systems within the organization's infrastructure.