CVE-2022-28445 in KiteCMS
Summary
by MITRE • 04/22/2022
KiteCMS v1.1.1 was discovered to contain an arbitrary file read vulnerability via the background management module.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/28/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2022-28445 affects KiteCMS version 1.1.1 and represents a critical arbitrary file read flaw within its background management module. This type of vulnerability falls under the category of insecure direct object reference attacks and can be classified as CWE-22 according to the Common Weakness Enumeration framework. The flaw allows unauthorized users to access files on the server that should typically be restricted, potentially exposing sensitive data and system information. The vulnerability specifically manifests in the management interface where user inputs are not properly validated or sanitized before being used to construct file paths, creating an opportunity for path traversal attacks.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation mechanisms within the CMS's administrative backend. When administrators or authenticated users interact with the management module, the application fails to properly sanitize file path parameters that are passed to file system operations. This weakness enables attackers to manipulate input parameters to traverse the file system hierarchy and access files outside the intended directory structure. The attack vector typically involves crafting malicious requests that include directory traversal sequences such as ../ or ..\ which bypass normal access controls. This flaw is particularly dangerous because it can be exploited by both unauthenticated attackers and authenticated users with limited privileges, depending on the specific implementation details.
The operational impact of CVE-2022-28445 extends beyond simple data exposure to encompass potential system compromise and data breaches. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to read configuration files that may contain database credentials, API keys, and other sensitive information. The exposure of system files could reveal server architecture details, application source code, and other confidential data that could be used for further exploitation. Additionally, the ability to read arbitrary files may enable attackers to identify other vulnerabilities within the system or extract backup files that could contain additional sensitive information. This vulnerability directly impacts the confidentiality and integrity of the affected system, potentially leading to complete system compromise if combined with other exploitation techniques.
Security professionals should consider implementing multiple layers of mitigation strategies to address this vulnerability. The primary recommendation involves implementing strict input validation and sanitization mechanisms that prevent path traversal sequences from being processed. This includes filtering out special characters and sequences that could enable directory traversal attacks. Organizations should also enforce proper access controls and privilege separation within the management module, ensuring that only authorized personnel can access sensitive administrative functions. Regular security audits and code reviews should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other parts of the application. The mitigation approach aligns with ATT&CK technique T1213 which involves data from information repositories and emphasizes the importance of securing administrative interfaces and preventing unauthorized access to system resources. Updates to the KiteCMS platform should be prioritized to address this vulnerability, and organizations should implement network segmentation and monitoring to detect potential exploitation attempts.