CVE-2020-5509 in Car Rental Project
Summary
by MITRE
PHPGurukul Car Rental Project v1.0 allows Remote Code Execution via an executable file in an upload of a new profile image.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/18/2025
The PHPGurukul Car Rental Project version 1.0 contains a critical remote code execution vulnerability that stems from inadequate input validation and file upload sanitization mechanisms. This vulnerability exists within the profile image upload functionality, where the application fails to properly validate file types and extensions, allowing malicious actors to upload executable files that can be executed on the server. The flaw represents a classic insecure file upload vulnerability that directly maps to CWE-434, which specifically addresses the improper restriction of file uploads. Attackers can exploit this weakness by crafting a malicious file with an executable extension such as .php, .asp, or .jsp and uploading it through the profile image upload feature, thereby gaining unauthorized access to the underlying server infrastructure.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs at the application layer where the file upload process lacks proper validation controls. The system accepts file uploads without verifying the actual file content or enforcing strict file type restrictions, enabling attackers to bypass security measures through techniques such as file extension manipulation or content spoofing. The vulnerability enables arbitrary code execution because the application does not perform proper file type checking or content analysis, allowing uploaded files to be directly executed by the web server. This issue is particularly dangerous because it operates at the intersection of multiple security domains, combining elements of web application security, file handling, and privilege escalation. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this as a technique under T1190 - Exploit Public-Facing Application, where attackers leverage vulnerable web applications to achieve remote code execution.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and far-reaching, potentially allowing attackers to completely compromise the affected system. Once executed, the malicious code can be used to establish persistent backdoors, escalate privileges, access sensitive data, or launch further attacks against the internal network. The vulnerability affects the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the system, as attackers can read sensitive information, modify data, or disrupt service availability. Organizations using this software are at risk of data breaches, unauthorized access to user information, and potential lateral movement within their network infrastructure. The impact extends beyond the immediate application to potentially affect the entire server environment, as the execution of arbitrary code can lead to complete system compromise and unauthorized access to databases containing personal and financial information.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability must address both the immediate security gap and implement comprehensive security controls. Organizations should immediately implement strict file type validation, rejecting all file uploads that do not conform to predefined safe extensions and content types. The application should enforce proper file content verification using techniques such as MIME type checking, file signature validation, and sandboxing of uploaded files. Additionally, uploaded files should be stored in a separate directory with restricted permissions and should not be directly executable by the web server. Security patches should be applied to update the application to a version that addresses this vulnerability, while implementing web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems to monitor for suspicious upload activities. The remediation process should also include proper input validation, output encoding, and least privilege access controls to minimize the potential impact of successful exploitation attempts. Regular security assessments and penetration testing should be conducted to identify and address similar vulnerabilities in other applications within the organization's infrastructure.