Axublog Arbitrary File Write Scanner

Axublog is a PHP-based personal blogging system used by individuals and small businesses to share content on the web. Its primary purpose is to provide a platform for users to easily maintain a personal blog or a small-scale website. Many users favor Axublog for its simplicity and ease of use, which also includes a variety of customizable themes and plugins. The platform offers blogging solutions with basic features like WYSIWYG editors, user management, and content organization. Axublog is suited for non-technical users seeking a straightforward blogging system without the complexities of larger CMS options. Used globally, Axublog continues to be a preferred choice for those looking for an efficient blogging tool.

The Arbitrary File Upload vulnerability in Axublog version 1.0.6 permits unauthorized users to upload files to the server without validation. This vulnerability can be exploited by attackers to upload malicious files, potentially leading to server compromise or data breach. The vulnerability exists in the app.php page, which lacks proper checks on uploaded content. Attackers leverage this flaw by crafting requests that include malicious scripts disguised as legitimate files. Once uploaded, these scripts can execute arbitrary commands on the server. The vulnerability highlights the vital need for strong input validation and secure file handling practices on web applications.

Technically, the vulnerability involves the app.php page, where the 'edit2save' function does not adequately validate the 'path' and 'content' parameters in HTTP requests. This flaw allows attackers to specify arbitrary file paths and content that are subsequently written to the server. The vulnerable endpoint does not perform sufficient checks on file types or content being uploaded, facilitating malicious payload delivery. Attackers can thus upload PHP scripts with executable code, risking remote code execution on the host server. The majority of exploitation techniques involve creating files with PHP code that, when requested, execute the code on the web server. The lack of proper authorization checks on file paths exacerbates the issue, rendering the application vulnerable to hostile manipulation.

When exploited, this vulnerability can lead to severe consequences including unauthorized server access, data loss, and potential takeover of the application. An attacker with knowledge of this flaw can execute commands on the server, compromise data integrity, and launch further attacks. Malicious files can also become persistent backdoors, granting attackers ongoing access to the server resources. Additionally, the threat extends to wider network exposure if compromised files manipulate server configurations or access connected systems. This could further lead to data breaches and unauthorized monitoring of sensitive information, impacting user privacy and business operations.

REFERENCES

• http://www.axublog.com