CVE-2023-51412 in Forms Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 12/29/2023
Unrestricted Upload of File with Dangerous Type vulnerability in Piotnet Piotnet Forms.This issue affects Piotnet Forms: from n/a through 1.0.25.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/21/2024
The vulnerability CVE-2023-51412 represents a critical unrestricted file upload flaw in Piotnet Forms version 1.0.25 and earlier, classified under CWE-434 Unrestricted Upload of File with Dangerous Type. This vulnerability stems from insufficient validation mechanisms within the file upload functionality that allows malicious actors to bypass security controls and upload potentially harmful files to the target system. The issue exists in the form processing component where user-submitted files are accepted without proper type checking, size limitations, or content validation. Attackers can exploit this weakness by uploading malicious files such as web shells, scripts, or executables that can be executed within the application's context, leading to complete system compromise.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker uploads a file with a dangerous MIME type or file extension that the application accepts without proper sanitization. The vulnerability's impact is amplified by the fact that it affects all versions up to and including 1.0.25, indicating a long-standing flaw in the application's security architecture. The unrestricted nature of the upload means that no restrictions are enforced on file types, file sizes, or content validation, creating an attack surface where malicious files can be seamlessly integrated into the application's file system. This flaw aligns with ATT&CK technique T1505.003 Lateral Movement: Web Shell, as the uploaded files can serve as persistent backdoors for attackers to maintain access to the compromised system.
The operational impact of CVE-2023-51412 extends beyond immediate code execution capabilities to encompass complete system compromise and data exfiltration. Successful exploitation can enable attackers to execute arbitrary commands on the server, escalate privileges, establish persistent access through web shells, and potentially use the compromised system as a launchpad for further attacks within the network. The vulnerability's severity is further compounded by its potential to allow attackers to upload malware, ransomware, or other malicious payloads that can cause widespread damage to the organization's infrastructure and data assets. Organizations using affected versions of Piotnet Forms face significant risk of unauthorized access, data breaches, and potential regulatory compliance violations.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2023-51412 must address both immediate remediation and long-term security improvements. The primary solution involves updating to version 1.0.26 or later where the unrestricted file upload vulnerability has been patched. Organizations should also implement comprehensive file validation mechanisms including MIME type checking, file extension filtering, and content analysis to prevent malicious uploads. Additional security measures include restricting file upload directories, implementing proper file permissions, and conducting regular security audits of file handling components. The mitigation approach should align with security frameworks such as OWASP Top Ten and NIST Cybersecurity Framework, emphasizing defense in depth principles and continuous monitoring of file upload operations. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems to monitor for suspicious file upload activities and prevent exploitation attempts.