CVE-2021-45865 in Student Attendance Management System
Summary
by MITRE • 03/29/2022
A File Upload vulnerability exists in Sourcecodester Student Attendance Manageent System 1.0 via the file upload functionality.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/31/2022
The CVE-2021-45865 vulnerability represents a critical file upload flaw within the Sourcecodester Student Attendance Management System version 1.0, exposing the application to arbitrary code execution risks. This vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and inadequate file type restrictions within the system's upload functionality, allowing malicious actors to bypass security controls and upload potentially harmful files to the server. The flaw exists in the application's core file handling mechanisms where user-supplied files are processed without proper sanitization or content verification, creating an attack surface that can be exploited to compromise the entire system infrastructure.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability demonstrates a classic insecure file upload vulnerability classified under CWE-434, which occurs when applications allow users to upload files without proper validation of file types, content, or destination paths. Attackers can leverage this weakness by uploading malicious files such as php shells, web shells, or other executable scripts that can be executed within the web server context. The vulnerability specifically affects the system's ability to validate file extensions and content, enabling attackers to upload files with dangerous extensions that can execute code on the target server. This flaw operates at the application layer and can be exploited through direct HTTP requests or by crafting malicious payloads that target the upload endpoint.
The operational impact of CVE-2021-45865 extends beyond simple unauthorized file placement, as successful exploitation can lead to complete system compromise including data theft, privilege escalation, and persistent backdoor access. Once an attacker uploads a malicious file, they can execute arbitrary commands on the server, potentially gaining access to sensitive student data, system credentials, and other confidential information. The vulnerability creates a persistent threat vector that can be exploited repeatedly, allowing attackers to maintain access to the compromised system over extended periods. This type of vulnerability directly maps to ATT&CK technique T1190 for Exploit Public-Facing Application and T1078 for Valid Accounts, as it enables attackers to establish persistent access through compromised application interfaces.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate implementation of comprehensive file validation controls including strict file type checking, content verification, and proper file naming conventions. Organizations should implement whitelisting approaches that only permit specific, safe file extensions while rejecting all others. Additionally, uploaded files should be stored outside the web root directory, and proper access controls should be enforced to prevent direct execution of uploaded content. The system should also implement MIME type validation, file content analysis, and random file name generation to prevent path traversal attacks. Security measures should include regular security audits of upload functionality, implementation of intrusion detection systems, and proper logging of all file upload activities to detect suspicious behavior patterns. These controls align with industry best practices outlined in OWASP Top Ten and NIST Cybersecurity Framework guidelines for preventing insecure file upload vulnerabilities.