CVE-2022-25099 in WBCE
Summary
by MITRE • 02/24/2022
A vulnerability in the component /languages/index.php of WBCE CMS v1.5.2 allows attackers to execute arbitrary code via a crafted PHP file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/26/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2022-25099 represents a critical remote code execution flaw within the WBCE CMS v1.5.2 platform, specifically affecting the /languages/index.php component. This vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization mechanisms that fail to properly filter user-supplied data before processing. The flaw exists in the language selection functionality where the application accepts a language parameter without sufficient verification, allowing malicious actors to inject and execute arbitrary PHP code through carefully crafted file uploads or direct parameter manipulation.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-94, which describes improper control of generation of code, commonly known as code injection vulnerabilities. Attackers can exploit this weakness by uploading malicious PHP files with specific naming conventions or by manipulating the language parameter to include malicious payloads. The vulnerability operates at the application layer and can be leveraged without authentication, making it particularly dangerous for publicly accessible web applications. The flaw demonstrates poor input validation practices that enable attackers to bypass normal security controls and execute arbitrary commands on the target system with the privileges of the web server process.
The operational impact of CVE-2022-25099 extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with complete control over the affected web server. Successful exploitation can lead to data breaches, system compromise, and potential lateral movement within network environments. The vulnerability can be exploited through multiple vectors including file upload mechanisms and direct parameter manipulation, making it difficult to defend against entirely. Organizations running WBCE CMS v1.5.2 are at significant risk of unauthorized access, data exfiltration, and potential establishment of persistent backdoors. The attack surface is particularly wide given that the vulnerability affects core language functionality that is typically enabled and accessible to all users.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2022-25099 should prioritize immediate patching of the WBCE CMS to version 1.5.3 or later, which contains the necessary security fixes. Until patches are applied, administrators should implement restrictive file upload controls, disable unnecessary language selection features, and monitor web server logs for suspicious activity. Network-level protections such as web application firewalls can provide additional defense-in-depth measures, though they should not be considered a substitute for proper code-level fixes. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of following secure coding practices including input validation, output encoding, and principle of least privilege. Organizations should conduct comprehensive security assessments of their web applications to identify similar vulnerabilities and implement proper security monitoring to detect exploitation attempts. This vulnerability exemplifies the critical need for regular security updates and proper security testing of web applications to prevent exploitation of known vulnerabilities.