CVE-2023-39525 in PrestaShop
Summary
by MITRE • 08/08/2023
PrestaShop is an open source e-commerce web application. Prior to version 8.1.1, in the back office, files can be compromised using path traversal by replaying the import file deletion query with a specified file path that uses the traversal path. Version 8.1.1 contains a patch for this issue. There are no known workarounds.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/30/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2023-39525 affects PrestaShop, a widely used open source e-commerce platform that powers numerous online stores worldwide. This security flaw exists within the back office functionality of PrestaShop versions prior to 8.1.1, representing a critical path traversal vulnerability that could allow attackers to manipulate file operations through crafted import file deletion queries. The vulnerability specifically exploits how the application handles file paths during import operations, creating a scenario where malicious actors can target arbitrary files on the server through manipulation of the deletion query parameters.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and sanitization within the file handling mechanisms of PrestaShop's administrative interface. When processing import file deletion requests, the system fails to properly validate or sanitize the file path parameter, allowing attackers to inject traversal sequences such as "../" or similar path manipulation techniques. This weakness enables an attacker to navigate outside the intended directory structure and potentially access, modify, or delete files that should remain protected within the application's secure boundaries. The vulnerability operates at the file system level, where the application's back office components directly interact with the underlying operating system's file management functions without adequate boundary checking.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data exposure, as it could potentially lead to complete system compromise if attackers can leverage the path traversal to access sensitive configuration files, database credentials, or application source code. An attacker with access to the PrestaShop back office could exploit this vulnerability to delete critical system files, overwrite important configuration data, or potentially execute arbitrary code if the application's file handling processes are not properly isolated from the underlying file system. The risk is particularly elevated for organizations running older versions of PrestaShop, as the vulnerability exists in the administrative interface where authorized personnel typically have elevated privileges, making the potential attack surface more significant.
Organizations should immediately upgrade to PrestaShop version 8.1.1 or later to remediate this vulnerability, as no effective workarounds exist for this particular flaw. The patch implemented in version 8.1.1 addresses the root cause by strengthening input validation and implementing proper path sanitization mechanisms within the import file deletion functionality. Security teams should conduct comprehensive assessments of their PrestaShop installations to identify any systems running vulnerable versions and prioritize immediate upgrades. Additionally, organizations should monitor their systems for any suspicious file access patterns or unauthorized modifications that might indicate exploitation attempts. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-22 Path Traversal and relates to ATT&CK technique T1078 Valid Accounts, as it requires access to the back office to exploit, and T1566 Phishing, since attackers might need to gain initial access through social engineering to reach the administrative interface where the vulnerability exists.