CVE-2023-44767 in RiteCMS
Summary
by MITRE • 10/25/2023
A File upload vulnerability in RiteCMS 3.0 allows a local attacker to upload a SVG file with XSS content.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/09/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2023-44767 represents a critical file upload flaw within RiteCMS version 3.0 that enables local attackers to execute cross-site scripting attacks through maliciously crafted svg files. This issue stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization mechanisms within the content management system's file handling processes. The vulnerability specifically targets the svg file upload functionality, which is commonly used for storing images and graphics within web applications. When an attacker successfully uploads a malicious svg file containing embedded javascript code or other malicious payloads, the system fails to properly validate or sanitize the file content before storage or execution. This allows the attacker to inject malicious code that can be executed in the context of other users who view the uploaded content, creating a persistent cross-site scripting vector that can compromise user sessions and potentially escalate privileges within the application environment.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through the manipulation of the file upload interface where attackers can submit svg files containing malicious javascript payloads. These svg files may contain embedded script tags or event handlers that execute when the file is rendered or processed by the web application. The vulnerability exists due to insufficient validation of file content types and the absence of proper sanitization routines that would strip or encode potentially dangerous elements from svg files. According to the CWE taxonomy, this vulnerability maps to CWE-434 which describes "Unrestricted Upload of File with Dangerous Type" and may also relate to CWE-79 which addresses "Cross-site Scripting". The attack vector is particularly concerning because it allows local attackers to leverage the cms functionality to execute malicious code without requiring remote exploitation, making it more accessible and potentially more dangerous in compromised environments.
The operational impact of CVE-2023-44767 extends beyond simple cross-site scripting as it can enable attackers to perform session hijacking, steal sensitive user information, and potentially gain unauthorized access to administrative functions within the cms. When users view pages containing the malicious svg files, their browsers execute the embedded javascript code which can capture cookies, redirect traffic, or inject additional malicious content into the application. This vulnerability can be particularly devastating in enterprise environments where cms systems serve as central content repositories for multiple users and applications. The persistent nature of stored cross-site scripting vulnerabilities means that the attack remains active until the malicious content is removed from the system, potentially allowing attackers to maintain access and continue compromising users over extended periods. The vulnerability also impacts the overall security posture of organizations using RiteCMS 3.0 as it creates opportunities for attackers to establish footholds within the application ecosystem and potentially escalate to more serious attacks.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2023-44767 should focus on implementing comprehensive input validation and sanitization measures for all file uploads, particularly those involving svg content. Organizations should ensure that svg files undergo strict validation to remove any potentially dangerous elements such as script tags, event handlers, or external references. The implementation of proper content type checking and file extension validation is essential to prevent the upload of malicious files. Additionally, deploying web application firewalls and implementing proper security headers can help detect and prevent exploitation attempts. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability relates to T1566 which covers "Phishing" and T1190 which addresses "Exploit Public-Facing Application", highlighting the need for comprehensive network security measures. Organizations should also implement regular security updates and patches for their cms systems, conduct thorough code reviews, and establish secure file handling procedures that include automatic scanning for malicious content. The vulnerability underscores the importance of defense in depth strategies and proper access controls to limit the impact of such security flaws within the overall application architecture.