CVE-2023-7036 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

This CVE details a vulnerability found in automad up to version 1.10.9 related to unrestricted upload through the file FileCollectionController.php in the Content Type Handler component. The exploit allows for remote attacks and has a base severity rating of MEDIUM.

Understanding CVE-2023-7036

This section will delve into the specifics of CVE-2023-7036, outlining what it is, its impact, technical details, and mitigation strategies.

What is CVE-2023-7036?

CVE-2023-7036 is a vulnerability in automad versions up to 1.10.9 that enables unrestricted upload via the FileCollectionController.php file in the Content Type Handler module. This manipulation can be exploited remotely, making it a critical security issue.

The Impact of CVE-2023-7036

The impact of CVE-2023-7036 is significant as it allows attackers to perform unrestricted uploads, potentially leading to unauthorized access, data breaches, and other malicious activities. The exploit has been publicly disclosed, posing a threat to systems running affected versions of automad.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-7036

In this section, we will explore the technical aspects of CVE-2023-7036, including vulnerability description, affected systems and versions, and the exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in automad up to version 1.10.9 resides in the FileCollectionController.php file within the Content Type Handler component, enabling an unrestricted upload exploit. Attackers can manipulate unknown data to execute malicious actions remotely.

Affected Systems and Versions

The following versions of automad are impacted by CVE-2023-7036: 1.10.0, 1.10.1, 1.10.2, 1.10.3, 1.10.4, 1.10.5, 1.10.6, 1.10.7, 1.10.8, and 1.10.9. It is crucial for users of these versions to take immediate action to mitigate the risk.

Exploitation Mechanism

The exploitation of CVE-2023-7036 involves leveraging the unrestricted upload capability in the FileCollectionController.php file of automad's Content Type Handler. This allows threat actors to upload and execute malicious files remotely, compromising system security.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2023-7036 and enhance overall security posture, certain actions need to be taken promptly and on a long-term basis to prevent similar vulnerabilities.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users of affected automad versions should update to a patched version, apply vendor-supplied fixes, and restrict access to vulnerable components to mitigate the risk of exploitation. Additionally, implementing network-level security controls can help prevent unauthorized access.

Long-Term Security Practices

Establishing robust security practices, such as regular vulnerability assessments, code reviews, and user access controls, can proactively prevent and detect security vulnerabilities in software components. Educating users on secure upload practices and monitoring file uploads for anomalies can also enhance security measures.

Patching and Updates

Staying informed about security updates released by automad and promptly applying patches to address known vulnerabilities is crucial. Regularly monitoring for software updates, subscribing to security advisories, and maintaining a proactive patch management process can safeguard systems from potential exploits.