Identification of Unrestricted File Uploads

Unrestricted file upload vulnerabilities occur when an application allows users to upload files without proper validation and sanitation. This can lead to various security issues, including the execution of malicious code, system compromise, and unauthorized access. Here's how a penetration tester identifies and assesses the risks associated with unrestricted file uploads:

Steps for Identification

  1. Understand the Upload Feature: Analyze how the application handles file uploads, including where files are stored, how they are accessed, and what types of files are allowed.
  2. Test File Upload Functionality: Attempt to upload various types of files to see if the application properly validates and restricts them. This includes:
    • Uploading executable scripts (e.g., PHP, Python, JavaScript) to see if they can be executed on the server.
    • Uploading large files to test for denial of service (DoS) vulnerabilities.
    • Uploading files with double extensions (e.g., image.jpg.php).
    • Changing the content type of a file (e.g., uploading a script with a image/jpeg MIME type).
  3. Check File Upload Location: Determine where the files are stored. Files should not be stored in publicly accessible directories without proper access controls.
  4. Inspect File Execution: Check if the uploaded files can be executed or parsed by the server. This could allow an attacker to execute arbitrary code.
  5. Automated Scanning Tools: Use automated tools to identify common file upload vulnerabilities, but remember that manual testing is crucial for a thorough assessment.

Common Examples of Unrestricted File Upload Vulnerabilities

  1. Executing Malicious Scripts: If an attacker can upload and execute a script on the server, they could potentially gain unauthorized access or control over the server.
  2. Overwriting Files: An attacker might overwrite critical files on the server, such as configuration files, leading to system compromise.
  3. Serving Malicious Content: Uploading malicious content that can be served to other users, potentially leading to client-side attacks like XSS or malware distribution.

Implications of Unrestricted File Uploads

  • Server Compromise: Execution of malicious scripts can lead to complete server takeover.
  • Data Breach: Unauthorized access to sensitive data through uploaded scripts or tools.
  • Client-Side Attacks: Hosting malicious content that targets other users of the application.

Mitigation

  • Whitelist File Types: Allow only specific, necessary file types to be uploaded.
  • File Validation: Check the file extension, MIME type, and content to ensure it's not executable or harmful.
  • Size Limit: Impose limits on the size of uploads to prevent DoS attacks.
  • Storage Location: Store uploaded files in a location outside of the webroot or with direct access disabled.
  • Randomized File Names: Rename files upon upload to prevent direct reference and execution.
  • Access Controls: Implement strict access controls and authentication for file retrieval.

By thoroughly testing and identifying vulnerabilities in file upload functionalities, penetration testers can help organizations prevent potential attacks and breaches, ensuring the application's security integrity is maintained.