CVE-2024-6801 in Online Student Management System
Summary
by MITRE • 07/17/2024
A vulnerability, which was classified as critical, has been found in SourceCodester Online Student Management System 1.0. This issue affects some unknown processing of the file /add-students.php. The manipulation of the argument image leads to unrestricted upload. The attack may be initiated remotely. The exploit has been disclosed to the public and may be used. The associated identifier of this vulnerability is VDB-271703.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/19/2024
The CVE-2024-6801 vulnerability represents a critical security flaw in the SourceCodester Online Student Management System version 1.0 that specifically targets the image upload functionality within the /add-students.php file. This vulnerability falls under the category of unrestricted file upload, a common yet dangerous flaw that allows attackers to bypass normal file validation mechanisms and upload malicious files to the server. The issue is particularly concerning because it enables remote exploitation, meaning attackers can leverage this vulnerability without requiring physical access to the system or local network presence. The vulnerability's classification as critical indicates the severe potential impact on system security and data integrity. The fact that the exploit has been publicly disclosed and is available for use significantly increases the risk to organizations that have not yet patched or mitigated this issue. This vulnerability directly maps to CWE-434, which describes the weakness of unrestricted upload of file with dangerous type, a well-documented pattern that has been exploited in numerous security incidents across various web applications. The attack vector is particularly dangerous because it allows for arbitrary code execution through the upload of malicious files, potentially leading to complete system compromise.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker manipulates the image parameter in the /add-students.php file to upload files with executable extensions or malicious payloads. The system fails to properly validate file types, file extensions, or file contents, allowing attackers to upload files such as php, aspx, or other script files that can be executed on the web server. This flaw enables attackers to gain unauthorized access to the system, potentially leading to data breaches, system compromise, or even the establishment of persistent backdoors. The vulnerability's remote nature means that attackers can exploit it from anywhere on the internet, making it particularly dangerous for web applications that are publicly accessible. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability aligns with T1190 - Exploit Public-Facing Application, which describes techniques used to compromise systems by exploiting vulnerabilities in externally accessible applications. The lack of proper input validation and sanitization in the file upload process creates a pathway for attackers to execute malicious code directly on the server, potentially leading to privilege escalation or lateral movement within the network.
The operational impact of CVE-2024-6801 extends beyond immediate system compromise to encompass broader organizational risks including data theft, service disruption, and regulatory compliance violations. Organizations utilizing the affected system may experience unauthorized access to student records, academic data, and potentially sensitive personal information, leading to privacy breaches and legal consequences. The vulnerability can be exploited to establish persistent access to the system, allowing attackers to maintain control over the compromised environment for extended periods. This type of vulnerability often serves as an initial access point for more sophisticated attacks, potentially leading to ransomware deployment, data exfiltration, or the installation of additional malicious software. The public disclosure of the exploit increases the probability of automated attacks targeting vulnerable systems, as threat actors can leverage readily available tools and scripts to exploit this weakness. Organizations should consider the potential for cascading effects if the compromised system is part of a larger network infrastructure, as this vulnerability could provide attackers with a foothold for further infiltration and reconnaissance activities. The vulnerability also impacts the system's availability and integrity, as attackers could potentially delete or corrupt data, disrupt services, or manipulate student records to undermine the application's functionality and trustworthiness.