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CVE-2021-45010: High Vulnerability in Tiny File Manager

CVE-2021-45010 is a high-severity path traversal vulnerability in Tiny File Manager that allows remote attackers to execute malicious PHP files. Organizations must prioritize patching to mitigate risks associated with this vulnerability.

HIGHPublic ExploitCVSS 8.8 · Published March 15, 2022

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CVE-2021-45010 is a high-severity vulnerability discovered in Tiny File Manager, specifically in the file upload functionality of tinyfilemanager.php. This path traversal vulnerability allows remote attackers, provided they have valid user accounts, to upload malicious PHP files directly to the webroot. Consequently, this leads to potential code execution on the affected server. This vulnerability has a CVSS score of 8.8, indicating a high risk level, making it critical for organizations to address it promptly.

The exploitation of this vulnerability could result in significant consequences for organizations, including unauthorized access to sensitive data, potential disruption of services, and the ability to execute arbitrary code on the server. Therefore, organizations should prioritize patching immediately to mitigate the associated risks.

Currently, there is a known exploit available, and security teams must remain vigilant against potential attacks leveraging this vulnerability. Organizations should consider implementing additional security measures to protect their environments until a patch is applied.

The urgency for defenders is high, as the window for exploitation exists. It is essential to maintain awareness of this vulnerability and the associated risks as part of an ongoing vulnerability management program.

Vulnerability Details

The vulnerability allows remote attackers to exploit the file upload feature in Tiny File Manager prior to version 2.4.7. The attack vector is classified as NETWORK, and it has a low attack complexity. Privileges required for exploitation are low, and no user interaction is needed, making this vulnerability particularly dangerous. The CWE classification for this vulnerability is CWE-22, indicating a path traversal issue.

Technical Analysis

The root cause of CVE-2021-45010 lies in improper validation of file paths during the file upload process. Attackers can manipulate the file path to upload arbitrary PHP files, which could then be executed by the web server. The attack vector is via network access, and the exploitation complexity is low, as the required privileges are minimal.

The vulnerability impacts confidentiality, integrity, and availability, all rated as high. Organizations must be aware that this vulnerability can have far-reaching consequences if not addressed, as it allows for code execution, potentially compromising sensitive data and services.

Risk & Impact Analysis

Organizations that use Tiny File Manager are at significant risk if they do not patch this vulnerability. The potential for remote code execution can lead to unauthorized access to sensitive data, disruption of services, and a compromised system integrity. The urgency assessment based on the CVSS score indicates that organizations should address this vulnerability in their priority patch cycle.

Given the high exploitability of this vulnerability and the available exploits, organizations must act swiftly. The blast radius could extend to all systems running vulnerable versions of Tiny File Manager, leading to widespread exploitation if not mitigated.

Exploitation Status

Signal

Status

Known Exploit

Yes

Public PoC

Yes

Actively Exploited

No

Ransomware Use

No

Affected Versions

All versions of Tiny File Manager prior to 2.4.7 are affected by this vulnerability. Organizations using these versions should update immediately to the latest version to mitigate risks.

Mitigation & Remediation

Organizations should apply the available patches for Tiny File Manager to remediate this vulnerability. Specifically, upgrading to version 2.4.7 or later is crucial. Additionally, organizations may consider implementing configuration hardening to restrict file uploads and monitor for unusual activity. For effective security, organizations can validate remediation effectiveness through penetration testing to identify similar weaknesses.

Detection Guidance

To detect potential exploitation of this vulnerability, organizations should monitor logs for unusual file upload activity, particularly uploads of PHP files. Behavioral anomalies, such as unexpected changes to file permissions or unauthorized access attempts, should also be investigated.

AppSecure Threat Intelligence Insight

CVE-2021-45010 highlights the ongoing risks associated with file upload functionalities in web applications. This vulnerability represents a common attack vector that security teams must prioritize. Organizations should consider adopting robust security practices, including thorough code reviews and security testing, as part of their development lifecycle. For further insight into security strategies, organizations can explore penetration testing methodology, the importance of a vulnerability management program, and the role of API security testing in preventing such vulnerabilities.

Disclaimer: This content was generated using AI. While we strive for accuracy, please verify critical information with official sources.

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