CVE-2026-28270 in kiteworks
Summary
by MITRE • 02/27/2026
Kiteworks is a private data network (PDN). Prior to version 9.2.0, a vulnerability in Kiteworks configuration allows uploading of arbitrary files without proper validation. Malicious administrators could exploit this to upload unauthorized file types to the system. Version 9.2.0 contains a patch for the issue.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/05/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2026-28270 affects Kiteworks private data network software, a platform designed to facilitate secure data sharing and collaboration within organizations. This security flaw represents a critical configuration issue that undermines the integrity of the system's file upload mechanisms. The vulnerability exists in versions prior to 9.2.0, indicating that the software development team recognized the risk and implemented a patch in their subsequent release. The flaw specifically relates to inadequate input validation during the file upload process, creating a pathway for unauthorized file operations that could compromise the entire data network infrastructure.
The technical nature of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-434, which describes insecure file upload mechanisms where applications fail to properly validate file types, sizes, or content before accepting uploads. This weakness enables attackers to bypass intended security controls and potentially introduce malicious content into the system. In the context of Kiteworks, the vulnerability allows for arbitrary file uploads without proper validation checks, meaning that any file can be uploaded regardless of its type or potential threat level. The risk is particularly significant because it affects the configuration layer of the application rather than a runtime execution flaw, making it more persistent and harder to detect through standard runtime monitoring.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized file uploads, as it provides malicious administrators with the capability to introduce potentially harmful content into the system. This threat vector is particularly dangerous because it leverages the trust relationship between administrators and the system, allowing an attacker with administrative privileges to exploit the configuration weakness. The vulnerability could enable the deployment of malware, backdoors, or other malicious payloads that could compromise data integrity and confidentiality. Additionally, the ability to upload unauthorized file types could lead to privilege escalation attacks or serve as a vector for lateral movement within the network.
From a threat modeling perspective, this vulnerability maps to several ATT&CK techniques including T1195.001 (Supply Chain Compromise) and T1059.001 (Command and Scripting Interpreter) when considering how malicious files might be used to establish persistence or execute commands. The patch implemented in version 9.2.0 addresses the core configuration issue by enforcing proper file type validation and content checking mechanisms. Organizations should prioritize upgrading to version 9.2.0 or later to mitigate this risk, while also implementing additional monitoring controls to detect suspicious upload activities. Security teams should conduct thorough reviews of existing file upload configurations and consider implementing additional validation layers, such as file content analysis and reputation checks, to provide defense in depth against similar vulnerabilities. The vulnerability underscores the importance of proper input validation and configuration management in enterprise security systems, particularly those handling sensitive data within private data networks.