CVE-2023-24646 in Food Ordering System
Summary
by MITRE • 02/13/2023
An arbitrary file upload vulnerability in the component /fos/admin/ajax.php of Food Ordering System v2.0 allows attackers to execute arbitrary code via a crafted PHP file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/30/2026
The CVE-2023-24646 vulnerability represents a critical arbitrary file upload flaw within the Food Ordering System version 2.0, specifically affecting the /fos/admin/ajax.php component. This vulnerability arises from insufficient input validation and inadequate file type restrictions during the file upload process, creating an exploitable pathway for remote attackers to gain unauthorized access to the system. The flaw exists in the administrative interface of the food ordering platform, which is designed to handle various backend operations including file management and user data processing. Security researchers identified that the application fails to properly validate file extensions and content types, allowing malicious actors to bypass security controls and upload malicious PHP files that can execute arbitrary code on the target server.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the application's failure to enforce proper file validation mechanisms within the ajax.php endpoint. Attackers can craft specially designed PHP files containing malicious code and upload them through the vulnerable interface, effectively gaining the ability to execute commands on the server with the privileges of the web application. This arbitrary file upload vulnerability falls under the Common Weakness Enumeration category CWE-434, which specifically addresses the weakness of allowing untrusted data to be uploaded to a web server. The flaw enables attackers to establish persistent backdoors, escalate privileges, or perform further reconnaissance activities within the compromised environment. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it affects the administrative component of the system, potentially allowing full control over the entire food ordering platform.
The operational impact of CVE-2023-24646 extends beyond simple code execution, as it can lead to complete system compromise and data breaches. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability can manipulate the food ordering database, modify menu items, alter pricing information, and potentially access sensitive customer data including personal information and payment details. The vulnerability also creates opportunities for attackers to deploy malware, establish command and control channels, and use the compromised system as a launchpad for attacking other systems within the network. From an attack perspective, this vulnerability maps to the MITRE ATT&CK framework under the T1190 technique for Exploit Public-Facing Application, and T1059 for Command and Scripting Interpreter, as attackers can execute shell commands through the uploaded PHP files. The affected system may also become a staging point for lateral movement activities, as demonstrated by the T1021.001 technique for Remote Services.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2023-24646 should include immediate implementation of proper file validation controls, including strict file extension filtering, MIME type verification, and content analysis of uploaded files. Organizations should implement comprehensive input sanitization mechanisms that prevent PHP files and other potentially dangerous file types from being uploaded to the server. The recommended approach involves deploying a whitelist-based file type restriction system, where only explicitly allowed file extensions are permitted for upload. Additionally, uploaded files should be stored in a separate directory with restricted permissions, and the web server should be configured to prevent execution of PHP files in upload directories. Network segmentation and monitoring solutions should be implemented to detect and prevent exploitation attempts. The system administrators should also ensure that all components of the Food Ordering System are updated to the latest versions that contain proper security patches for this vulnerability. Regular security audits and penetration testing should be conducted to identify similar weaknesses in the application architecture, and the principle of least privilege should be enforced for all administrative functions to minimize potential damage from successful exploitation attempts.