CVE-2023-41505 in Student Enrollment
Summary
by MITRE • 03/13/2024
An arbitrary file upload vulnerability in the Add Student's Profile Picture function of Student Enrollment In PHP v1.0 allows attackers to execute arbitrary code via uploading a crafted PHP file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/01/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2023-41505 represents a critical arbitrary file upload flaw within the Student Enrollment In PHP v1.0 application's student profile picture functionality. This security weakness stems from inadequate input validation and file type checking mechanisms that fail to properly sanitize user-uploaded content. The vulnerability resides in the web application's file handling process where it accepts image uploads without sufficient restrictions on file extensions, content types, or file contents, creating an exploitable entry point for malicious actors seeking to compromise the system. The affected component specifically processes student profile picture uploads, making it a prime target for attackers looking to gain unauthorized access to the underlying server infrastructure.
This arbitrary file upload vulnerability directly maps to CWE-434, which categorizes insecure file upload handling as a significant security risk. The flaw enables attackers to upload malicious PHP files that can be executed on the web server, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The vulnerability operates through a straightforward exploitation vector where an attacker crafts a PHP file with malicious code and uploads it through the student profile picture upload interface. The application's failure to implement proper file validation allows the uploaded PHP file to be stored and subsequently executed by the web server, creating a persistent backdoor or enabling remote code execution capabilities.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized file uploads, as it provides attackers with potential remote code execution privileges on the target system. Once a malicious PHP file is successfully uploaded and executed, attackers can establish persistent access, escalate privileges, and potentially use the compromised system as a foothold for further network exploration. The vulnerability's exploitation can result in data breaches, system compromise, and unauthorized access to sensitive student information stored within the application. The affected environment becomes vulnerable to various attack patterns including web shell deployment, privilege escalation, and lateral movement within the network infrastructure. This makes the vulnerability particularly dangerous as it can serve as a launching point for more sophisticated attacks targeting the broader network ecosystem.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2023-41505 should focus on implementing robust input validation and file type restriction mechanisms. Organizations should enforce strict file extension filtering, validate file content using multiple verification methods, and implement proper file storage separation from web-accessible directories. The application should utilize secure file upload libraries that automatically validate file types and contents, while also implementing proper access controls and file naming conventions to prevent executable files from being executed. Additionally, implementing web application firewalls and regular security scanning can help detect and prevent exploitation attempts. The remediation process should include immediate patching of the affected application version, implementation of proper file upload sanitization, and comprehensive security testing to ensure the vulnerability has been fully addressed. Organizations should also establish monitoring procedures to detect suspicious file upload activities and maintain up-to-date security practices aligned with industry standards including those referenced in the ATT&CK framework for web application attacks and file upload exploitation techniques.