CKFinder Exposure Scanner

The CKFinder file manager is a web-based application used to upload, manage, and share files on the server. It is utilized by developers and web administrators to efficiently handle file operations within web applications. CKFinder is designed to integrate with content management systems (CMS) and other platforms. It provides a user-friendly interface for managing files directly through a browser. Organizations rely on CKFinder to offer seamless file management capabilities to users without direct server access. The vulnerable version involves the web interface being accessible without authentication, posing a security risk.

The vulnerability associated with CKFinder is Exposure, which is a result of its sensitive web interface being accessible without authentication. This type of vulnerability involves unauthorized individuals having direct access to CKFinder's management functionalities. It is a significant issue as attackers can leverage this access to navigate server directories, upload malicious files, or tamper with existing data. This exposure often stems from misconfigurations during setup or maintenance of CKFinder. Properly configuring access controls is essential to mitigate the associated risks.

The CKFinder Exposure vulnerability involves a misconfiguration in access controls, allowing its interface to be accessed without authentication. The main technical concern is the availability of the CKFinder management panel through URLs such as /ckfinder/ckfinder.html. Unauthorized users can exploit this by directly accessing the CKFinder interface and executing various actions, such as file uploads or directory navigation. This vulnerability highlights the importance of securing web interfaces by restricting access to authenticated users only. Proper implementation of authentication mechanisms can significantly reduce the risk.

Exploitation of the CKFinder Exposure vulnerability can have several serious consequences. Unauthorized access to the CKFinder interface can lead to the upload and execution of malicious files on the server. Attackers can browse and download sensitive files or information from the system, leading to data breaches. Compromised CKFinder instances can serve as a foothold for further attacks on the affected web application or server. The vulnerability may also impact the integrity and confidentiality of the files managed through CKFinder. In some cases, exploitation could disrupt the normal operations of web applications relying on CKFinder for file management.

REFERENCES

• https://cksource.com/ckfinder
• https://owasp.org/Top10/A01_2021-Broken_Access_Control/