CVE-2019-7859 in Magento
Summary
by MITRE
A path traversal vulnerability in the WYSIWYG editor for Magento 2.1 prior to 2.1.18, Magento 2.2 prior to 2.2.9, Magento 2.3 prior to 2.3.2 could result in unauthorized access to uploaded images due to insufficient access control.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/19/2020
This vulnerability resides within the rich text WYSIWYG editor component of Magento e-commerce platforms, specifically affecting versions prior to the mentioned security patches. The flaw represents a classic path traversal issue that exploits inadequate input validation and access control mechanisms within the file handling system. Attackers can manipulate file paths to access resources that should remain restricted, potentially compromising the integrity of the web application's file system. The vulnerability stems from the editor's improper handling of user-supplied file paths during image upload and retrieval operations, creating a direct pathway for unauthorized file access.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability allows malicious actors to bypass normal file access controls by crafting specific file path sequences that traverse directories outside the intended upload boundaries. This occurs when the application fails to properly sanitize or validate file paths before processing them, enabling attackers to construct malicious paths that reference files outside the designated upload directories. The flaw specifically impacts the WYSIWYG editor's ability to properly restrict file access, creating a scenario where uploaded images and other media files can be accessed by unauthorized users. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-22 Path Traversal and follows patterns commonly associated with improper input validation issues in web applications.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized file access, as it can potentially lead to complete system compromise through the exposure of sensitive configuration files, database credentials, or other critical system resources. An attacker could leverage this vulnerability to access uploaded media files, potentially including customer data, product information, or proprietary business assets. The risk is particularly elevated in e-commerce environments where sensitive transactional data may be stored alongside uploaded media files, creating a potential data breach scenario. This vulnerability also supports further attack vectors as it may enable attackers to upload malicious files or gain insights into the underlying system architecture through the exposure of system files.
Organizations affected by this vulnerability should immediately apply the security patches released by Magento for their respective versions, specifically upgrading to Magento 2.1.18, 2.2.9, or 2.3.2. Additionally, implementing proper input validation and access control mechanisms within the WYSIWYG editor configuration can provide additional layers of protection. Security monitoring should be enhanced to detect unusual file access patterns, and regular security audits should be conducted to ensure that file upload and access controls remain properly configured. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper access control implementation in web applications and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1078 Valid Accounts and T1041 Exfiltration Over C2 Channel, emphasizing the need for robust security controls in content management systems.