CVE-2023-7212 in DeDeCMS
Summary
by MITRE • 01/07/2024
A vulnerability classified as critical has been found in DeDeCMS up to 5.7.112. Affected is an unknown function of the file file_class.php of the component Backend. The manipulation leads to unrestricted upload. It is possible to launch the attack remotely. The exploit has been disclosed to the public and may be used. The identifier of this vulnerability is VDB-249768. NOTE: The vendor was contacted early about this disclosure but did not respond in any way.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/24/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2023-7212 represents a critical security flaw in DeDeCMS versions up to 5.7.112, specifically within the backend component file_class.php. This issue constitutes a severe unrestricted file upload vulnerability that allows attackers to bypass normal file upload restrictions and execute arbitrary code on the affected system. The flaw exists in the backend processing logic where proper validation and sanitization of uploaded files are insufficiently implemented, creating an exploitable pathway for malicious actors to gain unauthorized access to the web server. The vulnerability's classification as critical stems from its potential for remote code execution and the fact that it affects the core backend functionality of the content management system.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability resides in the file_class.php component where the application fails to properly validate file types, extensions, and content during the upload process. Attackers can exploit this weakness by uploading malicious files such as php shells or web shells that can be executed directly on the web server. The lack of proper input sanitization and file type checking means that even if users attempt to upload files with restricted extensions, the system fails to properly enforce these restrictions. This vulnerability directly maps to CWE-434, which describes insecure file upload vulnerabilities where applications accept files without proper validation, and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190 for exploiting vulnerabilities in web applications.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and multifaceted, as it provides attackers with persistent access to the target system and enables them to establish backdoors, exfiltrate sensitive data, and potentially escalate privileges within the network. Remote exploitation capabilities mean that attackers do not require physical access to the system or prior authentication to exploit this vulnerability. Once successfully exploited, the attacker can upload malicious files that persist across system reboots and can be used to maintain long-term access to the compromised infrastructure. The vulnerability also poses risks to data integrity and confidentiality, as attackers can manipulate content, access sensitive databases, and potentially use the compromised system as a launch point for further attacks within the network infrastructure.
Organizations using affected versions of DeDeCMS should immediately implement multiple layers of mitigation strategies to protect their systems. The most critical immediate action involves applying the vendor's official patches or upgrading to a patched version of the software, though in this case the vendor did not respond to early disclosure notifications. Network segmentation and firewall rules should be implemented to restrict access to the backend administrative interfaces, while implementing strict file upload validation at multiple levels including client-side, server-side, and application-level controls. Additional security measures include deploying web application firewalls to detect and block suspicious upload attempts, implementing proper file type whitelisting, and conducting regular security audits of uploaded content. System monitoring should be enhanced to detect unusual file upload patterns and unauthorized access attempts, while regular security assessments should be performed to identify similar vulnerabilities in other components of the web infrastructure.