ProjectSend Improper Authorization Scanner

ProjectSend is an open-source file sharing and management software that allows businesses and organizations to collaborate seamlessly by securely sending and receiving files. It's used worldwide in professional environments where team collaboration and file sharing are critical. It provides overall control over the user interface and access permissions, ensuring that only those with authorized access can handle files. Designed for designers, web agencies, and any company working with file transfers, ProjectSend enhances productivity by allowing ease of communication and data exchange. The product is favored for its flexibility and the security it offers, making it a trusted tool in corporate settings. As a highly customizable solution, it's tailored to meet specific organizational needs, ensuring that files are shared efficiently and securely.

Improper Access Control in ProjectSend is a vulnerability that occurs when the software fails to enforce permissions properly, potentially allowing unauthorized actions. This vulnerability can result in unauthorized users performing actions that should be restricted, such as altering user registration settings or adding exceptions to file upload rules. It can be particularly damaging in environments where data security and access restrictions are paramount. Such vulnerabilities are often found in web applications where permission checks are not adequately implemented or verified. When overlooked, Improper Access Control can lead to data exposure and unauthorized execution of scripts. These issues underscore the importance of stringent access control policies and accurate user role definitions within software systems.

The technical details of the Improper Access Control vulnerability in ProjectSend version r1605 reveal critical gaps in the software's authorization checks. Specifically, the system may not correctly verify user permissions before allowing actions that could alter registration settings or whitelist unsafe file types. This vulnerability typically exists in the software's configuration files or user management modules, which handle authentication and access permissions. By manipulating these weak points, an attacker could bypass security checks and make unauthorized changes. Additionally, the exploitation involves sending specific HTTP requests to ProjectSend servers, leveraging the lack of proper access verification. Such technical lapses can pave the way for more severe security breaches if not adequately addressed.

If exploited, this vulnerability could enable attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code on the server, significantly impacting the server's integrity and data security. This could lead to unauthorized data access, data insertion, and uncontrolled web server behavior. It would compromise the operational confidentiality of affected organizations and potentially lead to data breaches. Unauthorized users could alter files, disrupt workflows, and access sensitive corporate data, undermining both security and trust. In more severe cases, the organization's entire file-sharing system could be destabilized, incurring costly damages and loss of sensitive information. Mitigation includes developing a robust auditing process for permission verification and enhancing user authentication processes to prevent misuse.

REFERENCES

• https://www.projectsend.org/
• https://www.synacktiv.com/sites/default/files/2024-07/synacktiv-projectsend-multiple-vulnerabilities.pdf