CVE-2019-16192 in DocCms
Summary
by MITRE
upload_model() in /admini/controllers/system/managemodel.php in DocCms 2016.5.17 allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code through module management files, as demonstrated by a .php file in a ZIP archive.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/18/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2019-16192 resides within the DocCms content management system version 2016.5.17, specifically in the upload_model() function located in the system management controller. This flaw represents a critical security weakness that enables remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code through the module management interface, fundamentally compromising the integrity and confidentiality of the affected system. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization mechanisms within the file upload process, allowing malicious actors to bypass security controls and deploy malicious code directly into the web application environment.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through a carefully crafted ZIP archive containing a PHP file that gets processed during module management operations. When the upload_model() function handles the archive extraction and file processing, it fails to properly validate file extensions, content types, or file attributes, creating an opportunity for attackers to include malicious PHP code within the archive. This process typically involves the application extracting files from the ZIP archive and storing them in a directory accessible via the web server, where the malicious PHP code can then be executed by the web server's PHP processor. The vulnerability manifests as a failure in the application's secure file handling protocols, where the system assumes all uploaded files are benign without proper verification mechanisms.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability creates a severe threat landscape for organizations using DocCms 2016.5.17, as it provides attackers with a direct path to arbitrary code execution on the target system. Successful exploitation allows attackers to gain full control over the web server, potentially leading to data theft, system compromise, and further lateral movement within the network infrastructure. The attack vector is particularly dangerous because it leverages legitimate administrative functions, making it difficult to detect through standard network monitoring systems. The vulnerability can be exploited remotely without requiring authentication, significantly expanding the attack surface and making it accessible to a wide range of threat actors. According to CWE standards, this vulnerability maps to CWE-434, which describes the insecure upload of a file containing a virus or malware, while the ATT&CK framework categorizes this as a file execution technique under the execution phase.
The mitigation strategies for CVE-2019-16192 should focus on implementing comprehensive file validation and sanitization controls within the application's upload mechanisms. Organizations must immediately apply the vendor-provided security patches or upgrade to a supported version of DocCms that addresses this vulnerability. Additionally, implementing strict file type validation, content inspection, and secure file handling practices are essential measures. The system should enforce strict file extension filtering, reject executable file types, and implement proper file attribute validation during the upload process. Network segmentation and access controls should be reinforced to limit the potential impact of successful exploitation, while regular security audits and penetration testing should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities. The implementation of web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems can provide additional layers of protection against exploitation attempts, and organizations should establish proper monitoring procedures to detect unauthorized file upload activities within their systems.