CVE-2023-5262 in RapidCMS
Summary
by MITRE • 10/25/2023
A vulnerability has been found in OpenRapid RapidCMS 1.3.1 and classified as critical. Affected by this vulnerability is the function isImg of the file /admin/config/uploadicon.php. The manipulation of the argument fileName leads to unrestricted upload. The attack can be launched remotely. The exploit has been disclosed to the public and may be used. The associated identifier of this vulnerability is VDB-240871.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/25/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2023-5262 represents a critical security flaw in OpenRapid RapidCMS version 1.3.1 that exposes the application to unauthorized file upload attacks. This issue resides within the administrative configuration component, specifically in the uploadicon.php file where the isImg function processes file name arguments without adequate validation mechanisms. The flaw enables attackers to bypass normal file upload restrictions and execute arbitrary file uploads, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The vulnerability's critical classification stems from its remote exploitability and the fact that public exploitation details have been disclosed, making it immediately actionable by threat actors.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through manipulation of the fileName argument within the isImg function, which fails to properly validate or sanitize file extensions and content. This improper input validation creates an unrestricted upload condition where malicious files can be uploaded to the server without proper authorization checks. The vulnerability falls under CWE-434 which specifically addresses "Unrestricted Upload of File with Dangerous Type" and demonstrates a classic insecure file upload vulnerability pattern. Attackers can leverage this flaw to upload malicious scripts, web shells, or other harmful payloads that can then be executed within the web application context, potentially providing them with persistent access to the underlying system.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends far beyond simple data compromise, as it provides attackers with a pathway to establish persistent presence within the target environment. Remote exploitation means that attackers do not need physical access or network proximity to the system, making the attack surface significantly larger and more dangerous. Once successful, the vulnerability allows for complete system takeover through the execution of uploaded malicious files, potentially enabling attackers to perform privilege escalation, data exfiltration, system reconnaissance, and further lateral movement within the network. The disclosed exploit status increases the likelihood of widespread exploitation across vulnerable installations, as security researchers and malicious actors can readily implement the attack vectors.
Organizations running OpenRapid RapidCMS 1.3.1 must implement immediate mitigation strategies to address this critical vulnerability. The most effective approach involves patching the application to version 1.3.2 or later where the vulnerability has been resolved through proper input validation and file type restrictions. Additionally, implementing strict file upload validation at multiple layers including application-level checks, web server configurations, and network-level restrictions can provide defense-in-depth. Security controls should include mandatory file type validation, content inspection, and proper file extension filtering to prevent malicious file uploads. The vulnerability's presence in the administrative configuration component also necessitates enhanced access controls, multi-factor authentication, and network segmentation to limit potential attack vectors and reduce the impact of successful exploitation attempts. Organizations should also conduct thorough vulnerability assessments to identify any other potentially affected components within their OpenRapid RapidCMS installations and ensure comprehensive remediation across all vulnerable systems.