A Path Traversal vulnerability exists in TinyFileManager all versions up to and including 2.4.6 that allows attackers to upload a file (with Admin credentials or with the CSRF vulnerability) with the "fullpath" parameter containing path traversal strings (../ and ..\) in order to escape the server's intended working directory and write malicious files onto any directory on the computer.
With a CVSS score of 6.5, this vulnerability falls into the medium severity category. The risk to organizations includes potential unauthorized file uploads, which can lead to severe integrity impacts and could be exploited relatively easily with low attack complexity.
Given the nature of this vulnerability, organizations should prioritize patching immediately. The exploitation status indicates that there is an existing exploit available, which heightens the urgency for affected users.
Defenders should take note of the potential for attackers to leverage this vulnerability to gain unauthorized access, and it is crucial to implement immediate remediation measures.
Vulnerability Details
Officially, this vulnerability is classified under CWE-22: Improper Limitation of a Pathname to a Restricted Directory ('Path Traversal'). The vulnerability affects all versions of TinyFileManager up to and including version 2.4.6, with the official description detailing how attackers can exploit the 'fullpath' parameter to upload malicious files.
The CVSS score of 6.5 is indicative of a medium severity level, given the attack vector is network-based, with low complexity and no authentication required. User interaction is necessary for the attack to succeed.
The publication date of this vulnerability is September 15, 2021, making it crucial for organizations to review their versions of TinyFileManager and apply necessary patches.
Technical Analysis
This vulnerability arises from improper validation of user input in the 'fullpath' parameter, allowing malicious path traversal attempts. Attackers can craft requests that manipulate the intended working directory, leading to potential unauthorized file uploads and execution of malicious scripts.
The attack vector is network-based, requiring low complexity for exploitation. No special privileges are required by the attacker, although user interaction is necessary to trigger the exploit. There is no confidentiality impact, but the integrity impact is rated high due to the potential for unauthorized file uploads.
Given the nature of the vulnerability and the environment in which TinyFileManager operates, it is essential for organizations to be aware of the potential for significant integrity impacts stemming from successful exploitation.
Risk & Impact Analysis
Real-world deployment risk associated with this vulnerability is significant. Organizations using TinyFileManager in a network-exposed environment face the potential for unauthorized file uploads, leading to compromised system integrity.
Risk to organizations includes the ability for attackers to leverage this vulnerability to upload malicious files, potentially leading to further exploitation within the network. The blast radius can be considerable, depending on the access level of the compromised files.
Considering the CVSS score of 6.5 and the fact that the vulnerability is not included in the Known Exploited Vulnerabilities (KEV) catalog, organizations should address this vulnerability in their priority patch cycle.
Exploitation Status
Signal | Status |
|---|---|
Known Exploit | Yes |
Public PoC | Yes |
Actively Exploited | No |
Ransomware Use | No |
Affected Versions
All versions of TinyFileManager prior to and including version 2.4.6 are affected by this vulnerability. Organizations should ensure they are running a patched version of the software to mitigate this risk.
Mitigation & Remediation
To address this vulnerability, organizations must apply updates provided by the vendor as soon as possible. For TinyFileManager, users should upgrade to a version that addresses this vulnerability.
If a patch is not available, consider implementing network controls to restrict access to the application and monitor logs for any anomalous file upload attempts.
For further guidance on security best practices, organizations may refer to resources such as application security assessment.
Detection Guidance
Organizations should monitor logs for indicators of potential exploitation, such as unusual file upload requests that contain path traversal patterns. Behavioral anomalies, such as unauthorized file changes, should also be investigated.
Establishing network signatures that flag uploads with suspicious parameters can also assist in early detection of attacks targeting this vulnerability.
AppSecure Threat Intelligence Insight
The long-term significance of CVE-2021-40964 lies in its demonstration of how path traversal vulnerabilities can lead to serious integrity issues in web applications. Security teams should take note of the patterns this vulnerability represents and the ease with which it can be exploited.
This vulnerability serves as a reminder of the importance of validating user input and implementing strict controls around file uploads. Organizations are encouraged to regularly review their security posture and consider adopting penetration testing methodologies to identify similar weaknesses.
In conclusion, organizations should stay informed of vulnerabilities like CVE-2021-40964 and ensure they have robust remediation strategies in place to mitigate potential risks.
Disclaimer: This content was generated using AI. While we strive for accuracy, please verify critical information with official sources.
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