External risk intelligence

Drupal Core File Upload Vulnerability.

CVE advisoryKnown Exploit

CVE-2020-13671

A vulnerability in Drupal core affects file upload processing, potentially allowing incorrect file execution or MIME type serving. This impacts organizations using Drupal, posing a risk to system integrity and data.

4Halo Surface Signal

Unrestricted File Upload

Drupal

7.0 to before 7.748.8.0 to before 8.8.118.9.0 to before 8.9.99.0.0 to before 9.0.83233

External exposure likelihood

Halo Surface Signal score for CVE-2020-13671

Drupal is a content management system commonly deployed as a public-facing web application. Since the vulnerability involves file uploads handled by the web server, it is reachable via standard internet-facing web interfaces.

Horizon Alert

Summary of the vulnerability and why it matters

A vulnerability in Drupal core allows for improper handling of uploaded file extensions. This could result in files being served with incorrect MIME types or, in specific hosting environments, being executed as PHP code. The issue impacts organizations utilizing Drupal for their content management systems.

  • Vulnerable Drupal core component
  • Improper filename sanitization
  • Potential code execution, data compromise

Attack Path

How an attacker could exploit the issue

An attacker can gain unauthorized access to a Drupal website by exploiting a flaw in how the system handles uploaded filenames. This allows for the potential execution of malicious code, impacting the integrity and availability of the website and its data. The attack leverages the website's file upload functionality to compromise the underlying system.

  • Exposed file upload functionality.
  • Attacker uploads a specially crafted file.
  • Malicious code execution, system compromise.

Live Threat

Current exploitation, exposure, and threat context

This vulnerability allows for unauthorized code execution and potential data manipulation within affected systems. Attackers could leverage this by uploading malicious files disguised with incorrect extensions, leading to them being processed as executable code. This poses a significant risk to the integrity and availability of organizational data and services.

  • Attackers with low skill could exploit this.
  • Requires limited access to upload files.
  • High business risk and urgency.

Priority actions

Operational Fix

Recommended remediation, mitigation, and detection steps

This vulnerability impacts Drupal installations by allowing uploaded files to be interpreted with incorrect extensions or executed as PHP. This could expose organizations to unauthorized code execution or data manipulation. Affected systems, employees handling uploaded content, and the integrity of business data may be at risk.

  • Identify exposed Drupal assets.
  • Reduce exposure or isolate risk.
  • Apply vendor fix and validate.
  • Monitor for related issues.

Frequently asked questions

What is Drupal core and its primary function?

Drupal core is the essential software that powers the Drupal content management system. It provides the fundamental features and functionalities required by organizations to build and manage websites and diverse digital experiences.

What is the weakness in CVE-2020-13671 affecting Drupal?

CVE-2020-13671 is a vulnerability where Drupal core fails to adequately sanitize filenames of uploaded files. This flaw can lead to files being misinterpreted as different types, potentially allowing them to be executed as PHP code under certain server configurations, posing a risk of unauthorized execution.

How can an attacker exploit the Drupal file upload flaw?

Exploitation requires an attacker to have the ability to upload files to the Drupal site. The vulnerability is triggered by specially crafted filenames that cause the system to misinterpret the file type, bypassing intended security checks. This could lead to arbitrary code execution.

What is the relevance of CVE-2020-13671 to public-facing web applications?

Drupal is frequently used for public-facing web applications. Since this vulnerability involves file uploads handled by the web server, it is accessible through standard internet-facing interfaces, making it a relevant threat to many organizations.

What are the recommended steps to address the Drupal file upload vulnerability?

Organizations should identify all Drupal assets that are publicly accessible. It is crucial to reduce exposure or isolate any identified risks. Applying the vendor-provided fixes and thoroughly validating the remediation are essential next steps. Continuous monitoring for related security incidents is also advised.

References