CVE-2023-48701 in Statamic
Summary
by MITRE • 11/22/2023
Statamic CMS is a Laravel and Git powered content management system (CMS). Prior to versions 3.4.15 an 4.36.0, HTML files crafted to look like images may be uploaded regardless of mime validation. This is only applicable on front-end forms using the "Forms" feature containing an assets field, or within the control panel which requires authentication. This issue has been patched on 3.4.15 and 4.36.0.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/15/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2023-48701 affects Statamic CMS, a content management system built on Laravel and Git technologies. This security flaw represents a critical validation bypass issue that undermines the system's file upload security mechanisms. The vulnerability specifically impacts versions prior to 3.4.15 for the 3.x series and 4.36.0 for the 4.x series, indicating a widespread concern across major releases of the platform. The flaw stems from inadequate MIME type validation during file upload processes, creating a pathway for malicious actors to exploit the system's trust in file type identification.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the manipulation of HTML files that are designed to appear as image files to the system's validation mechanisms. When users interact with front-end forms containing assets fields or when administrators use the control panel, the system's MIME type checking fails to properly distinguish between legitimate image files and maliciously crafted HTML files that are disguised as images. This allows attackers to upload potentially harmful content that bypasses the intended security controls. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it operates within the core file handling functionality of the CMS, making it accessible through both user-facing forms and administrative interfaces.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple file upload bypasses and represents a potential vector for more serious security compromises. Attackers could leverage this flaw to upload malicious scripts or web shells disguised as image files, potentially leading to full system compromise. The vulnerability affects both public-facing forms and authenticated administrative interfaces, meaning that even users with legitimate access could be exploited through compromised accounts. The attack surface is further expanded by the fact that the issue requires no special privileges beyond normal user access to the CMS's file upload functionality, making it particularly dangerous in environments where multiple users have access to content management features. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-434, which addresses the insecure upload of code, and represents a clear violation of secure coding practices that should prevent untrusted file uploads from executing within web applications.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2023-48701 should prioritize immediate patching of affected systems to versions 3.4.15 and 4.36.0 as recommended by the vendor. Organizations should also implement additional defensive measures including enhanced file validation beyond MIME type checking, such as content-based file signature verification and strict file extension filtering. Network-based detection measures should monitor for unusual file upload patterns and implement automated scanning of uploaded content for malicious indicators. Security teams should conduct comprehensive audits of all file upload functionality within their Statamic installations and ensure that proper access controls are in place to limit upload capabilities to authorized personnel only. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of implementing defense-in-depth strategies that go beyond basic input validation to protect against sophisticated attack vectors that exploit trust relationships within web applications. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls and content security policies to further protect against exploitation of similar vulnerabilities in their CMS environments.