CVE-2024-10413 in Online Hotel Reservation System
Summary
by MITRE • 10/27/2024
A vulnerability, which was classified as critical, has been found in SourceCodester Online Hotel Reservation System 1.0. Affected by this issue is the function upload of the file /guest/update.php. The manipulation of the argument image leads to unrestricted upload. The attack may be launched remotely. The exploit has been disclosed to the public and may be used.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/27/2024
This critical vulnerability exists in the SourceCodester Online Hotel Reservation System version 1.0, specifically within the guest update functionality located at /guest/update.php. The flaw manifests in the image parameter handling where the system fails to properly validate or sanitize file uploads, creating an unrestricted file upload condition that allows attackers to execute arbitrary code on the target system. The vulnerability's classification as critical stems from its remote exploitation capability and the potential for complete system compromise through the upload of malicious files.
The technical flaw represents a classic unrestricted file upload vulnerability that falls under CWE-434, which describes the improper restriction of uploads to a restricted directory. The system's failure to implement proper file type validation, content verification, or secure storage mechanisms creates an attack surface where malicious actors can upload web shells, malware, or other malicious executables. The vulnerability operates through the image parameter in the update.php script, which likely accepts file uploads without sufficient sanitization of file extensions, MIME types, or file contents. This weakness enables attackers to bypass normal security controls and gain unauthorized access to the server.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft, as it provides attackers with persistent access to the underlying system. Remote exploitation means that threat actors can leverage this vulnerability from anywhere on the internet without requiring physical access or prior authentication. Successful exploitation could result in complete system compromise, data exfiltration, service disruption, or the establishment of persistent backdoors for future access. The public disclosure of the exploit increases the risk profile significantly, as it removes the element of surprise that attackers typically rely on for successful breaches. Organizations running this vulnerable system face potential regulatory violations, financial losses, and reputational damage if their systems are compromised.
Mitigation strategies should focus on implementing comprehensive file upload validation controls that align with security best practices and industry standards. The system requires immediate implementation of strict file type validation, including whitelisting of allowed extensions, MIME type checking, and content verification using multiple independent methods. Organizations should also implement proper file storage practices such as storing uploaded files outside the web root, using random file names, and implementing proper access controls. Additionally, the application should employ input validation and sanitization techniques that prevent path traversal attacks and ensure that uploaded files cannot be executed as web content. Network-level protections including web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems can provide additional defense-in-depth measures, while regular security assessments and code reviews should be conducted to identify and remediate similar vulnerabilities in other components of the system. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under T1190 - Exploit Public-Facing Application, highlighting the importance of proper input validation and secure file handling practices to prevent such attacks from succeeding.