CVE-2022-4273 in Human Resource Management System
Summary
by MITRE • 12/03/2022
A vulnerability, which was classified as critical, has been found in SourceCodester Human Resource Management System 1.0. This issue affects some unknown processing of the file /hrm/controller/employee.php of the component Content-Type Handler. The manipulation of the argument pfimg 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-214769 was assigned to this vulnerability.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/26/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2022-4273 represents a critical security flaw in the SourceCodester Human Resource Management System version 1.0 that enables unauthorized file upload capabilities through improper input validation. This vulnerability specifically targets the Content-Type Handler component within the employee.php controller file, creating a dangerous attack vector that allows malicious actors to bypass normal file validation mechanisms. The flaw manifests when the pfimg parameter is processed without adequate sanitization, permitting attackers to upload arbitrary files to the system's server. The vulnerability's classification as critical stems from its potential for remote code execution and the ease with which it can be exploited by threat actors who have already made the exploit publicly available, as indicated by the VDB-214769 identifier assigned to this issue.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-434, which describes insecure file upload vulnerabilities where applications accept files from users without proper validation of file types or content. The flaw occurs within the Content-Type Handler processing logic where the pfimg argument is not properly validated before file upload operations are permitted. This allows attackers to upload malicious files such as web shells, malware, or other harmful content that can be executed on the target system. The remote exploitation capability means that attackers do not require physical access to the system or local network privileges to leverage this vulnerability, making it particularly dangerous for web applications that are publicly accessible. The vulnerability essentially removes all restrictions on file uploads, creating an unrestricted upload condition that can be exploited for various malicious purposes including data exfiltration, system compromise, and persistent access.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized file uploads, creating a comprehensive security breach that can lead to full system compromise. Attackers who successfully exploit this vulnerability can establish persistent backdoors, gain administrative privileges, and potentially use the compromised system as a launching point for further attacks within the network. The vulnerability's presence in a human resource management system particularly increases the risk profile since such systems often contain sensitive employee data, personal information, and potentially confidential business records. The disclosed exploit status means that security researchers and malicious actors alike have already developed working methods to leverage this weakness, reducing the window of opportunity for organizations to defend against attacks. This vulnerability also represents a significant concern for compliance with data protection regulations since unauthorized access to employee information could result in regulatory penalties and legal consequences.
Organizations utilizing the SourceCodester Human Resource Management System version 1.0 must implement immediate mitigations to address this critical vulnerability. The primary defense mechanism involves implementing strict file type validation and content verification processes that reject any file uploads that do not meet predetermined security criteria. Organizations should also implement proper input sanitization techniques that validate all parameters, including the pfimg argument, before processing file upload requests. Network segmentation and access controls should be strengthened to limit the potential impact of successful exploitation attempts. Additionally, organizations should consider implementing web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems that can monitor for suspicious file upload activities. The vulnerability's classification under ATT&CK technique T1190, which covers exploitation of remote services, indicates that this weakness should be prioritized in security assessments and remediation efforts. Regular security updates and patches should be applied immediately to address this vulnerability, and organizations should conduct thorough penetration testing to identify any additional weaknesses that may exist within their HR management system implementations.