CVE-2023-6902 in Stupid Simple CMS
Summary
by MITRE • 12/17/2023
A vulnerability has been found in codelyfe Stupid Simple CMS up to 1.2.4 and classified as critical. This vulnerability affects unknown code of the file /file-manager/upload.php. The manipulation of the argument file leads to unrestricted upload. The exploit has been disclosed to the public and may be used. The identifier of this vulnerability is VDB-248260.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/11/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2023-6902 represents a critical security flaw in the codelyfe Stupid Simple CMS version 1.2.4 and earlier, specifically within the file manager upload functionality. This issue falls under the category of unrestricted file upload vulnerabilities, which pose significant risks to web application security. The vulnerability exists in the /file-manager/upload.php component where improper input validation allows attackers to bypass security controls and upload malicious files to the target system. The flaw is particularly concerning because it affects the core file upload functionality that should typically enforce strict file type and content restrictions to prevent exploitation.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate validation of file upload parameters, specifically the file argument handling within the upload.php script. Attackers can manipulate the file parameter to upload arbitrary files including malicious scripts, web shells, or other harmful content without proper authorization. This type of vulnerability is categorized as CWE-434, which specifically addresses "Unrestricted Upload of File with Dangerous Type," making it a well-documented and severe security concern in web application development. The vulnerability's classification as critical indicates that it can be easily exploited by attackers with minimal technical skill, as evidenced by the public disclosure of exploit information.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends far beyond simple unauthorized file uploads, as it provides attackers with a potential entry point for more sophisticated attacks. Once an attacker successfully uploads malicious files, they can execute arbitrary code on the web server, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The vulnerability creates opportunities for persistent threat actors to establish backdoors, exfiltrate sensitive data, or use the compromised system as a launchpad for further attacks within the network. This aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190, which covers "Exploit Public-Facing Application" and T1059, which addresses "Command and Scripting Interpreter," demonstrating how this vulnerability can enable multiple attack vectors.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2023-6902 should focus on immediate remediation efforts including implementing proper input validation, restricting file types, and enforcing strict file content checks. Organizations should deploy proper file upload validation mechanisms that verify file extensions, MIME types, and content signatures to prevent malicious file uploads. The recommended approach includes implementing a whitelist of allowed file extensions, performing content inspection of uploaded files, and ensuring proper file permissions and storage separation. Additionally, the vulnerability highlights the importance of regular security assessments and the need for robust application security practices, including the principles outlined in the OWASP Top Ten and secure coding guidelines. System administrators should also consider implementing web application firewalls and monitoring for suspicious upload activities to detect potential exploitation attempts.