CVE-2022-3549 in Simple Cold Storage Management System
Summary
by MITRE • 10/17/2022
A vulnerability was found in SourceCodester Simple Cold Storage Management System 1.0. It has been rated as problematic. This issue affects some unknown processing of the file /csms/admin/?page=user/manage_user of the component Avatar Handler. The manipulation leads to unrestricted upload. The attack may be initiated remotely. The exploit has been disclosed to the public and may be used. The identifier VDB-211049 was assigned to this vulnerability.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/09/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2022-3549 represents a critical security flaw within the SourceCodester Simple Cold Storage Management System version 1.0, specifically targeting the administrative user management functionality. This issue manifests in the avatar handler component located at the path /csms/admin/?page=user/manage_user, where improper input validation and file processing mechanisms create an exploitable condition that allows attackers to upload arbitrary files without restrictions. The vulnerability's classification as problematic indicates significant security implications that could lead to complete system compromise and unauthorized access to sensitive data.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate validation of file uploads within the avatar handler module, which fails to properly verify file types, extensions, or content before processing user-uploaded images. This unrestricted upload capability enables attackers to bypass normal security controls and potentially deploy malicious payloads such as web shells, malware, or other harmful files directly onto the server. The vulnerability's remote exploitability means that attackers can leverage this flaw from external networks without requiring physical access to the system, making it particularly dangerous for web applications accessible over the internet. The disclosure of the exploit to the public, as indicated by the VDB-211049 identifier, increases the likelihood of real-world exploitation and emphasizes the urgency of implementing protective measures.
The operational impact of CVE-2022-3549 extends beyond simple file upload capabilities, potentially enabling attackers to achieve arbitrary code execution, data theft, system compromise, and persistent access to the cold storage management infrastructure. This vulnerability directly violates security principles outlined in the CWE database under category CWE-434, which addresses "Unrestricted Upload of File with Dangerous Type," and aligns with ATT&CK techniques related to initial access through web shell deployment and privilege escalation via malicious file execution. Organizations utilizing this system face risks including complete system takeover, data exfiltration, and potential lateral movement within network environments where the application operates. The vulnerability's presence in a cold storage management system particularly concerning, as it could compromise temperature monitoring, inventory tracking, and other critical operational data that requires secure handling and access controls.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2022-3549 should focus on implementing comprehensive file validation mechanisms, including strict content type checking, file extension filtering, and mandatory file format validation before processing any uploads. Security measures must include restricting upload directories, implementing proper access controls, and deploying web application firewalls to monitor and block suspicious file upload attempts. Organizations should also consider implementing secure coding practices that align with OWASP Top Ten security guidelines, particularly those addressing file upload vulnerabilities and input validation. Regular security assessments, patch management procedures, and monitoring for unauthorized file uploads are essential components of a comprehensive defense strategy. Additionally, network segmentation and least privilege access controls should be implemented to limit the potential impact of successful exploitation attempts, while incident response procedures must be established to quickly detect and respond to any unauthorized file uploads that may occur.