CVE-2026-37065 in File Manager
Summary
by MITRE • 08/27/2026
Veno File Manager Project 4.4.9 is vulnerable to Arbitrary File Deletion in /vfm-admin/index.php?section=translations&action=update&remove=.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/27/2026
The Veno File Manager version 4.4.9 contains a critical security flaw classified as an arbitrary file deletion vulnerability, specifically located within the administrative interface at the endpoint /vfm-admin/index.php when interacting with the translations section. This vulnerability arises from insufficient input validation and sanitization mechanisms applied to parameters passed via HTTP requests, particularly those associated with file removal operations. The specific attack vector involves manipulating the remove parameter in a URL request targeting the translation management functionality. Because the application fails to adequately verify that the requested deletion operation is authorized or restricted to safe directories, an attacker can exploit this lack of validation to delete arbitrary files from the server's filesystem.
From a technical perspective, this flaw represents a classic instance of insecure direct object reference combined with path traversal capabilities if directory boundaries are not strictly enforced by the underlying operating system and application logic. The vulnerability allows for unauthorized modification or destruction of data integrity, which falls under CWE-22: Improper Limitation of a Pathname to a Restricted Directory when considering potential escalation, but more directly aligns with CWE-618: Exposed Unsafe ActiveX Method if active components are involved, though in this context it is best categorized under CWE-732: Incorrect Permission Assignment for Critical Resource or simply as an arbitrary file deletion vulnerability. The absence of robust access controls means that any user who can reach the administrative interface, including potentially unauthenticated users depending on configuration, can execute destructive commands against the server's file system.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and multifaceted. An attacker with network access to the vulnerable instance can delete critical application files, such as configuration scripts, database connection files, or core library components. This leads directly to a denial of service condition where the web application becomes non-functional due to missing dependencies. Furthermore, if sensitive data storage locations are targeted, there is a risk of permanent data loss that cannot be recovered without backups. In more complex scenarios involving symbolic links or specific server configurations, this vulnerability could potentially lead to further compromise by deleting security logs or other monitoring files, thereby obscuring the attacker's presence and hindering incident response efforts.
Mitigation strategies must focus on immediate remediation through software updates and rigorous access control implementation. The primary solution is to upgrade Veno File Manager to a patched version where this specific input validation issue has been resolved by the developers. In cases where an update is not immediately feasible, administrators should implement strict network-level controls such as firewall rules or reverse proxy configurations that restrict access to the /vfm-admin/ directory exclusively from trusted IP addresses. Additionally, enforcing strong authentication mechanisms and multi-factor authentication for all administrative accounts reduces the attack surface significantly. It is also advisable to apply principle of least privilege by ensuring the web server process runs with minimal file system permissions, limiting its ability to delete files outside of designated upload or cache directories regardless of application logic flaws.
Security monitoring should be enhanced to detect attempts at exploitation. Logging systems must capture all requests directed at administrative endpoints, particularly those involving file manipulation actions like remove or delete parameters. Analysis of these logs can reveal patterns indicative of automated scanning tools or manual probing for this specific vulnerability signature. Regular security audits and penetration testing focused on input validation weaknesses in file management modules are essential to identify similar flaws before they can be exploited by malicious actors. Adhering to secure coding standards that mandate strict whitelisting of allowed files and directories for deletion operations will prevent recurrence of such issues in future development cycles.