CVE-2024-44871 in moziloCMS
Summary
by MITRE • 09/10/2024
An arbitrary file upload vulnerability in the component /admin/index.php of moziloCMS v3.0 allows attackers to execute arbitrary code via uploading a crafted file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/31/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-44871 represents a critical arbitrary file upload flaw within the moziloCMS v3.0 content management system, specifically affecting the administrative interface component located at /admin/index.php. This vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and file type checking mechanisms that permit malicious actors to bypass security restrictions and upload potentially dangerous files to the server. The flaw exists in the file upload functionality that processes administrative requests, creating an attack surface where unauthorized code execution becomes possible through strategic file placement.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-434, which catalogs insecure file upload vulnerabilities where applications fail to properly validate file types, contents, or upload locations. Attackers can exploit this weakness by crafting malicious files with extensions that appear legitimate but contain executable code or scripts that the server will process. The vulnerability specifically affects the administrative area of the CMS, meaning that successful exploitation requires an attacker to either obtain administrative credentials or find another way to reach the vulnerable upload endpoint. The flaw operates by allowing file uploads without adequate sanitization of file names, extensions, or content, potentially permitting attackers to upload php files, shell scripts, or other executable content that can be executed within the web server context.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with persistent access to the compromised system and can lead to complete system compromise. Once an attacker successfully uploads malicious code, they can establish backdoors, exfiltrate sensitive data, modify website content, or use the compromised server as a launchpad for further attacks. The attack surface is particularly concerning because it targets the administrative interface, which typically has elevated privileges and access to sensitive system resources. This vulnerability can be exploited to perform privilege escalation attacks, data manipulation, and unauthorized access to user information stored within the CMS. The impact is amplified when considering that moziloCMS is a web-based content management system where the uploaded files are executed within the context of the web server, potentially allowing for remote code execution and full system compromise.
Security mitigation strategies for CVE-2024-44871 should focus on implementing robust file validation mechanisms, including strict file type checking, content inspection, and proper file name sanitization. Organizations should enforce the principle of least privilege by restricting file upload capabilities to authenticated users with appropriate permissions and implementing comprehensive monitoring of upload activities. The solution involves configuring the web server to prevent execution of uploaded files in web-accessible directories, utilizing secure file storage practices, and implementing proper input validation that adheres to industry standards such as those defined in the OWASP Top Ten. Additionally, the implementation of Content Security Policy headers and regular security audits of CMS components can help prevent similar vulnerabilities from being exploited. Network segmentation and intrusion detection systems should also be deployed to monitor for suspicious upload activities and potential exploitation attempts. The remediation process requires immediate patching of the vulnerable component and implementation of proper access controls to prevent unauthorized administrative access, aligning with ATT&CK technique T1505.003 for Persistence through Web Shell and T1059.007 for Command and Scripting Interpreter for PHP scripts.