CVE-2025-6843 in Simple Photo Gallery
Summary
by MITRE • 06/29/2025
A vulnerability was found in code-projects Simple Photo Gallery 1.0. It has been classified as critical. Affected is an unknown function of the file /upload-photo.php. The manipulation of the argument file_img leads to unrestricted upload. It is possible to launch the attack remotely. The exploit has been disclosed to the public and may be used.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/10/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2025-6843 represents a critical security flaw in the code-projects Simple Photo Gallery version 1.0 software package. This issue resides within the /upload-photo.php file where an insecure file upload functionality exists, creating a significant pathway for malicious actors to compromise the affected system. The vulnerability specifically manifests when the file_img argument is manipulated, allowing attackers to bypass normal file validation mechanisms and upload arbitrary files to the server. This critical classification indicates the severity of potential impact, as the flaw enables remote exploitation without requiring local system access or authentication credentials, making it particularly dangerous for web applications that process user-uploaded content.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and sanitization within the file upload process. When users submit photos through the upload-photo.php endpoint, the application fails to properly verify the file type, content, or extensions before storing files on the server. This lack of proper validation creates an unrestricted upload condition where attackers can submit malicious files such as php shells, webshells, or other executable code that can be executed within the web server context. The vulnerability follows the CWE-434 pattern of Unrestricted Upload of File, which is categorized under the broader weakness of insufficient input validation and inadequate file type checking. Attackers can leverage this flaw to gain unauthorized access to the server, potentially leading to complete system compromise through the execution of malicious code.
The operational impact of CVE-2025-6843 extends beyond simple unauthorized file uploads, as it provides attackers with persistent access to the affected web application and underlying infrastructure. Remote exploitation capabilities mean that attackers can target vulnerable installations from anywhere on the internet without requiring physical access or prior authentication. This vulnerability directly aligns with ATT&CK technique T1505.003 for Server Software Component, where adversaries compromise applications to execute malicious code. The unrestricted upload functionality enables attackers to deploy webshells that can be used for ongoing access, data exfiltration, or as a foothold for further attacks within the network. Additionally, the vulnerability may allow for privilege escalation if the web server process has elevated permissions, potentially enabling attackers to access sensitive system resources or other applications hosted on the same server.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2025-6843 must address both immediate remediation and long-term security improvements. Organizations should immediately patch or upgrade to a version of Simple Photo Gallery that resolves this vulnerability, as no reliable workarounds exist for this specific flaw. The implementation of strict file validation mechanisms is essential, including MIME type checking, file extension filtering, and content analysis to prevent execution of malicious files. Security measures should include configuring the web server to reject executable file uploads, implementing proper file access controls, and ensuring that uploaded files are stored outside the web root directory. Additional protective measures include monitoring upload directories for suspicious activity, implementing web application firewalls, and conducting regular security assessments of file upload functionality. Organizations should also consider implementing principle of least privilege for web server processes and regularly auditing file upload features to prevent similar vulnerabilities from emerging in the future. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of secure file handling practices and proper input validation in preventing remote code execution attacks.