Executive brief
File Browser is a web-based file management utility. A vulnerability in its command execution feature allows users with specific permissions to bypass their assigned folder restrictions and access any file on the server. This could lead to the theft of sensitive data, including the application's database and user password hashes, or allow an attacker to take full control of the server.
Technical details
The vulnerability is a scope bypass within the Command Execution feature of File Browser. Shell commands are executed as a subprocess of the application using the server's system UID without being restricted to the user's assigned 'scope' (directory). An attacker with 'Execute Commands' permissions can use standard shell utilities to read or write files outside their designated area, including the application's database. This allows for the extraction of bcrypt password hashes or the modification of the database to escalate privileges to administrator. Version 2.33.8 mitigates this by disabling the feature by default and requiring an explicit opt-in with security warnings.
Affected products
- File Browser File Browser < 2.33.8
Timeline
- 2025-03-26: disclosed: Vulnerability identified by SBA Research
- 2025-06-25: patched: Feature disabled by default in v2.33.8; core bug remains unfixed due to maintenance mode
- 2025-06-25: advisory: GitHub Advisory published