CVE-2024-57547 in CMSimple
Summary
by MITRE • 01/28/2025
Insecure Permissions vulnerability in CMSimple v.5.16 allows a remote attacker to obtain sensitive information via a crafted script to the Functionality of downloading php backup files.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/29/2025
The vulnerability CVE-2024-57547 represents a critical insecure permissions flaw within CMSimple version 5.16 that exposes sensitive system information to remote attackers. This vulnerability specifically targets the backup file download functionality, which should typically be restricted to authorized administrative users only. The issue stems from improper access controls that allow any remote attacker to craft malicious scripts and exploit the backup download mechanism to retrieve php backup files containing sensitive system data. Such backup files often contain database credentials, user information, configuration settings, and potentially other confidential data that could be leveraged for further attacks. The vulnerability falls under CWE-284 which specifically addresses inadequate access control mechanisms and represents a significant security risk for any organization relying on this content management system.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability exploits the lack of proper authentication checks within the backup download function. When a user requests a backup file through the download functionality, the system fails to verify whether the requester has appropriate authorization levels to access such sensitive data. This flaw allows attackers to bypass normal access controls and directly request backup files without proper authentication. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because php backup files often contain complete database dumps, configuration files, and potentially user credentials that could be used for privilege escalation or lateral movement within a compromised network. The attack vector requires minimal technical expertise since it involves simple HTTP requests that can be automated through common scripting tools.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it provides attackers with comprehensive access to system internals that could facilitate more sophisticated attacks. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability gains access to database connection strings, user account information, and potentially cryptographic keys stored within backup files. This information could enable further exploitation attempts including database injection attacks, credential reuse attacks, or even full system compromise if the backup files contain administrative credentials. The vulnerability affects organizations using CMSimple 5.16 and creates a persistent security risk since the flaw exists in the core application functionality rather than being a temporary configuration issue. According to ATT&CK framework tactic TA0001 (Initial Access) and technique T1078 (Valid Accounts), this vulnerability essentially provides attackers with a method to gain access to valid system accounts and credentials through legitimate backup mechanisms.
Organizations affected by CVE-2024-57547 should implement immediate mitigations including restricting access to backup download functionality through web server configuration, implementing proper authentication checks for all backup operations, and disabling backup download features if they are not required for legitimate administrative purposes. The recommended approach involves applying the vendor's official patch or upgrade to a version that addresses this access control flaw. Additionally, network segmentation should be implemented to limit access to backup functionality to trusted administrative networks only. Security monitoring should be enhanced to detect unusual backup file access patterns, and regular security audits should verify that backup files are not accessible through unauthorized paths. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls to block suspicious backup file requests and establish proper access logging for all backup operations to detect potential exploitation attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper access control implementation and highlights how seemingly simple functionality can create significant security risks when not properly secured.