CVE-2019-14771 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

Backdrop CMS 1.12.x before 1.12.8 and 1.13.x before 1.13.3 allows the upload of entire-site configuration archives through the user interface or command line. It does not sufficiently check uploaded archives for invalid data, potentially allowing non-configuration scripts to be uploaded to the server. This attack requires the "Synchronize, import, and export configuration" permission, a privilege that should only be granted to trusted administrators. Backdrop CMS incorporates measures to prevent the execution of PHP scripts, necessitating an alternative server-side scripting language for code execution.

Understanding CVE-2019-14771

In versions 1.12.x prior to 1.12.8 and 1.13.x prior to 1.13.3 of Backdrop CMS, a vulnerability exists that permits the upload of complete site configuration archives, posing a risk of uploading non-configuration scripts to the server.

What is CVE-2019-14771?

The vulnerability in Backdrop CMS allows the upload of site configuration archives without adequate validation, potentially enabling the upload of harmful scripts to the server.

The Impact of CVE-2019-14771

Malicious actors could exploit this vulnerability to upload harmful scripts to the server, compromising its security.
Trusted administrators with the "Synchronize, import, and export configuration" permission are at risk of unintentionally facilitating such attacks.

Technical Details of CVE-2019-14771

Backdrop CMS vulnerability details and affected systems.

Vulnerability Description

Backdrop CMS versions 1.12.x to 1.12.8 and 1.13.x to 1.13.3 are susceptible to unauthorized upload of configuration archives.

Affected Systems and Versions

Versions 1.12.x to 1.12.8 and 1.13.x to 1.13.3 of Backdrop CMS are impacted by this vulnerability.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers with the "Synchronize, import, and export configuration" permission can exploit this vulnerability to upload harmful scripts.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protective measures and steps to mitigate the CVE-2019-14771 vulnerability.

Immediate Steps to Take

Grant the "Synchronize, import, and export configuration" permission only to trusted administrators.
Ensure that alternative server-side scripting languages are available for code execution.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly review and update permissions to restrict access to critical functionalities.
Conduct security audits to identify and address vulnerabilities proactively.

Patching and Updates

Update Backdrop CMS to versions 1.12.8 and 1.13.3 or newer to patch the vulnerability.