CVE-2019-7896 in Magento
Summary
by MITRE
A remote code execution vulnerability exists in Magento 2.1 prior to 2.1.18, Magento 2.2 prior to 2.2.9, Magento 2.3 prior to 2.3.2. An authenticated user with administrator privileges to layouts can execute arbitrary code through a combination of product import, crafted csv file and XML layout update.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/20/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2019-7896 represents a critical remote code execution flaw affecting multiple versions of the Magento e-commerce platform. This security weakness specifically targets Magento 2.1 versions before 2.1.18, Magento 2.2 versions before 2.2.9, and Magento 2.3 versions before 2.3.2, creating a widespread impact across the Magento ecosystem. The vulnerability leverages a sophisticated attack vector that combines multiple exploitation techniques to achieve unauthorized code execution on affected systems.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation within Magento's product import functionality combined with insufficient sanitization of XML layout updates. An attacker with administrator privileges can craft a malicious CSV file that, when processed through the import mechanism, triggers a chain of events leading to arbitrary code execution. This exploit requires an authenticated administrator account, making it particularly dangerous as it operates within the legitimate administrative workflow of the platform. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-94, which describes "Improper Control of Generation of Code ('Code Injection')" and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for "Command and Scripting Interpreter: Python" and T1059.006 for "Command and Scripting Interpreter: PowerShell" within the adversary tactics framework.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with complete control over affected Magento installations. Once exploited, attackers can modify product catalogs, access customer data, manipulate inventory systems, and potentially use the compromised platform as a launching point for further attacks within the network. The vulnerability's authentication requirement does not mitigate its severity, as administrative accounts often possess extensive privileges and can be compromised through various means including credential theft, social engineering, or exploitation of other vulnerabilities. Organizations running affected Magento versions face significant risk of data breaches, financial loss, and reputational damage when this vulnerability is exploited.
Organizations should immediately implement mitigation strategies including applying the vendor-provided patches for the affected Magento versions, restricting administrative privileges to only essential personnel, implementing network segmentation to limit access to administrative functions, and monitoring for suspicious import activities. The recommended approach involves upgrading to the patched versions of Magento 2.1.18, 2.2.9, or 2.3.2, depending on the current installation. Additionally, organizations should consider implementing web application firewalls to detect and block malicious import attempts, establishing strict access controls for administrative functions, and conducting regular security audits of import processes and XML configuration files. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of input validation and privilege separation in web applications, particularly those handling user-supplied data through administrative interfaces.