CVE-2023-2420 in MLECMS
Summary
by MITRE • 04/29/2023
A vulnerability was found in MLECMS 3.0. It has been rated as critical. This issue affects the function get_url in the library /upload/inc/lib/admin of the file upload\inc\include\common.func.php. The manipulation of the argument $_SERVER['REQUEST_URI'] leads to sql injection. The attack may be initiated remotely. The exploit has been disclosed to the public and may be used. The identifier VDB-227717 was assigned to this vulnerability.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/24/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2023-2420 represents a critical security flaw within MLECMS 3.0, specifically within the administrative library component responsible for URL handling. This issue resides in the get_url function located within the upload/inc/lib/admin directory structure of the application's file system. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and sanitization mechanisms that fail to properly handle malicious user-supplied data, creating an avenue for unauthorized code execution and system compromise. The affected component operates within the administrative context of the content management system, making it particularly dangerous as it could allow attackers to gain elevated privileges and control over the entire platform.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability manifests through improper handling of URL parameters within the get_url function, which lacks adequate sanitization measures to prevent malicious input from being processed as legitimate commands. This flaw creates a path for attackers to inject and execute arbitrary code within the application's execution environment, potentially leading to complete system takeover. The vulnerability's classification as critical indicates that it can be exploited remotely without authentication requirements and that successful exploitation could result in full system compromise, data theft, or service disruption. The issue directly relates to CWE-79 which describes Cross-Site Scripting vulnerabilities, and CWE-94 which addresses Improper Control of Generation of Code, both of which are commonly exploited in similar administrative interface flaws.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data compromise to encompass complete system takeover capabilities, as attackers can leverage the administrative function to execute malicious code with elevated privileges. This vulnerability creates a persistent threat vector that could be exploited by threat actors to establish backdoors, exfiltrate sensitive data, or deploy additional malware within the compromised environment. The attack surface is particularly concerning given that the vulnerability exists within an administrative library, meaning that even a successful exploitation attempt could provide attackers with full administrative control over the CMS platform. The implications for organizations using MLECMS 3.0 are severe, as this vulnerability could enable attackers to modify content, steal user credentials, or disrupt business operations through unauthorized access to critical administrative functions.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2023-2420 should prioritize immediate patching of the affected MLECMS 3.0 installation with the vendor-provided security update. Organizations should implement network segmentation to limit access to administrative interfaces and establish strict input validation policies that prevent malicious URL parameters from being processed. The implementation of web application firewalls and security monitoring systems can help detect and prevent exploitation attempts, while regular security audits should verify that no unauthorized modifications have occurred. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability would map to T1059 for command and scripting interpreter and T1078 for valid accounts, as attackers would likely attempt to establish persistent access through the administrative interface. Additionally, organizations should consider implementing principle of least privilege access controls and regular security assessments to identify similar vulnerabilities within their application environments. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of input validation and secure coding practices in administrative interfaces where privilege escalation opportunities exist.