CVE-2022-3921 in Listingo Theme
Summary
by MITRE • 12/12/2022
The does not validate files to be uploaded via an AJAX action available to unauthenticated users, which could allow them to upload arbitrary files and lead to RCE
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/23/2025
This vulnerability exists within a web application that fails to properly validate file uploads submitted through an ajax endpoint accessible to unauthenticated users. The absence of input validation creates a critical security flaw that allows remote attackers to upload malicious files without authentication. The vulnerability stems from the application's failure to implement proper file type checking, size restrictions, or content validation mechanisms before processing uploaded files. This weakness directly aligns with cwe-434 which describes the improper restriction of uploads of executable files. The flaw enables attackers to bypass authentication requirements and exploit the application's file handling mechanisms to achieve unauthorized code execution.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves an ajax action endpoint that accepts file uploads without verifying the file's actual content or type. Attackers can exploit this by crafting malicious files with extensions that appear legitimate but contain executable code or scripts. The vulnerability allows for arbitrary file upload because the application does not enforce strict file validation checks such as content type verification, file signature validation, or extension filtering. This creates an attack surface where malicious actors can upload web shells, malware, or other executable payloads that can be executed within the application's context. The lack of authentication requirements means that any user can access this endpoint without proper authorization, significantly expanding the potential attack vector.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and can result in complete system compromise. Once an attacker successfully uploads a malicious file, they can achieve remote code execution on the affected server, potentially gaining full administrative control over the application and underlying infrastructure. The vulnerability can lead to data breaches, system infiltration, and unauthorized access to sensitive information stored within the application. Attackers may use this privilege to establish persistent backdoors, exfiltrate data, or launch further attacks against the internal network. The remote code execution capability also enables attackers to perform reconnaissance, escalate privileges, and maintain long-term access to compromised systems. This vulnerability directly maps to attack techniques described in the mitre att&ck framework under initial access and execution phases, specifically targeting the use of malicious file uploads as a method for code execution.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require implementing comprehensive file upload validation mechanisms that enforce strict content verification and access controls. Organizations should implement proper input validation that checks file signatures, content types, and file extensions against whitelists of approved formats. The application must enforce authentication requirements for all file upload endpoints, ensuring that only authorized users can submit files. Additional security measures include implementing proper file storage practices such as storing uploaded files outside the web root, using random file names, and implementing proper access controls. The system should also employ content validation techniques that examine the actual file content rather than relying solely on file extensions or mime types. Security headers and web application firewalls can provide additional layers of protection by monitoring and blocking suspicious file upload attempts. Regular security testing including penetration testing and code reviews should be conducted to identify and remediate similar vulnerabilities in the application's file handling mechanisms.