CVE-2022-50916 Overview
CVE-2022-50916 is a file upload vulnerability affecting e107 CMS version 3.2.1. The vulnerability allows authenticated administrators to override server files through the Media Manager import functionality. Attackers can exploit the upload mechanism by manipulating the upload URL parameter to overwrite existing files like top.php in the web application directory, potentially leading to remote code execution or complete system compromise.
Critical Impact
Authenticated administrators can leverage this vulnerability to overwrite critical server files, potentially leading to remote code execution and complete compromise of the web application.
Affected Products
- e107 CMS version 3.2.1
- e107 CMS versions prior to patched releases
Discovery Timeline
- 2026-01-13 - CVE CVE-2022-50916 published to NVD
- 2026-01-13 - Last updated in NVD database
Technical Details for CVE-2022-50916
Vulnerability Analysis
This vulnerability is classified as CWE-434 (Unrestricted Upload of File with Dangerous Type). The flaw exists in the Media Manager import functionality of e107 CMS version 3.2.1. The application fails to properly validate and restrict file upload operations when administrators use the import feature, allowing manipulation of the upload destination path. This architectural weakness enables authenticated administrators to overwrite arbitrary files on the server, including critical application files such as top.php.
The network-based attack vector combined with low attack complexity makes this vulnerability particularly dangerous for organizations running vulnerable e107 CMS installations. While authentication is required (administrative privileges), the potential impact to confidentiality, integrity, and availability is significant once an attacker gains access to an admin account.
Root Cause
The root cause of this vulnerability lies in improper input validation within the Media Manager's file import functionality. The application does not adequately sanitize or restrict the upload URL parameter, allowing attackers to specify arbitrary file paths as the upload destination. This lack of path validation enables file overwrite attacks where existing server files can be replaced with malicious content.
Attack Vector
The attack requires authenticated access with administrative privileges to the e107 CMS administration panel. An attacker with valid administrator credentials can navigate to the Media Manager import functionality and manipulate the upload URL parameter to specify a target file path. By crafting a malicious file with the same name as an existing server file (such as top.php) and manipulating the destination path, the attacker can overwrite critical application files with malicious code.
The vulnerability is exploited through the network attack vector, where the attacker sends specially crafted HTTP requests to the Media Manager endpoint. The manipulation of the upload path parameter bypasses intended file storage restrictions, allowing arbitrary file placement within the web application directory structure.
Detection Methods for CVE-2022-50916
Indicators of Compromise
- Unexpected modifications to core e107 CMS files, particularly top.php or other PHP files in the web root
- Unusual file upload activity in Media Manager logs from administrator accounts
- Modified timestamps on critical PHP files that should remain unchanged
- Presence of web shells or backdoor code in application directories
Detection Strategies
- Monitor file integrity of core e107 CMS files using file integrity monitoring (FIM) solutions
- Review Media Manager access logs for suspicious import operations with unusual URL parameters
- Implement web application firewall (WAF) rules to detect path traversal patterns in upload requests
- Audit administrator account activity for anomalous file upload behavior
Monitoring Recommendations
- Enable detailed logging for the e107 CMS Media Manager functionality
- Configure alerts for any modifications to PHP files in the web application root directory
- Monitor for new or modified files in sensitive directories following admin panel access
- Implement real-time file change detection on production e107 installations
How to Mitigate CVE-2022-50916
Immediate Actions Required
- Upgrade e107 CMS to the latest available version from the e107 Downloads Page
- Review and audit all administrator accounts for compromise or unauthorized access
- Implement strict file integrity monitoring on the e107 CMS installation
- Restrict administrative access to trusted IP addresses only
- Review Media Manager logs for any suspicious file upload activity
Patch Information
Organizations running e107 CMS version 3.2.1 should immediately check for available updates on the e107 Official Site. The vendor may have released patches addressing this file upload vulnerability. Additional technical details and exploit information can be found in the Exploit-DB #50910 entry and the VulnCheck Security Advisory.
Workarounds
- Disable the Media Manager import functionality if not required for business operations
- Implement additional authentication factors (MFA) for all administrator accounts
- Deploy a web application firewall (WAF) with rules to block path manipulation in upload requests
- Set restrictive file permissions on critical e107 CMS files to prevent overwrites
- Consider placing the e107 CMS administration panel behind a VPN or IP whitelist
# Configuration example - Restrict file permissions on critical files
chmod 444 /path/to/e107/top.php
chown root:root /path/to/e107/top.php
# Set immutable flag to prevent modifications (Linux)
chattr +i /path/to/e107/top.php
Disclaimer: This content was generated using AI. While we strive for accuracy, please verify critical information with official sources.
