CVE-2025-61808
Summary
CVE-2025-61808 is a critical vulnerability affecting Adobe ColdFusion versions 2025.4, 2023.16, 2021.22 and earlier. This vulnerability allows a high-privileged attacker to upload files with dangerous types without restriction, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution on the affected server.
Technical Details
CVE-2025-61808 is an Unrestricted Upload of File with Dangerous Type vulnerability. This flaw exists because the application fails to properly validate the type of files being uploaded. An attacker with high privileges can exploit this by uploading a malicious file (e.g., a JSP, CFM, or other executable file) to a location accessible by the web server. When the server attempts to execute this file, the attacker can gain arbitrary code execution with the privileges of the ColdFusion application server. The lack of user interaction required for exploitation and the potential for complete system compromise contribute to the high severity of this vulnerability.
The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization during the file upload process. Specifically, the application does not sufficiently check the file extension, MIME type, or file content to ensure that the uploaded file is safe and does not contain malicious code. This allows an attacker to bypass security measures and upload a file that can be executed by the server.
Affected Products and Versions
The following Adobe ColdFusion versions are affected by CVE-2025-61808:
- Adobe ColdFusion 2025.4
- Adobe ColdFusion 2023.16
- Adobe ColdFusion 2021.22 and earlier
Impact Assessment
Successful exploitation of CVE-2025-61808 can have severe consequences, including:
- Arbitrary Code Execution: An attacker can execute arbitrary code on the server, potentially gaining complete control of the system.
- Data Breach: The attacker can access sensitive data stored on the server, leading to a data breach.
- System Compromise: The attacker can compromise the entire system, including installing malware, creating backdoors, and disrupting services.
- Denial of Service: The attacker can cause a denial of service by crashing the server or overloading it with requests.
Remediation
Immediate Actions
- Apply the Security Patch: Adobe has released a security patch to address CVE-2025-61808. Apply the patch immediately to all affected ColdFusion installations.
- Review File Upload Functionality: Carefully review all file upload functionality in your ColdFusion applications to ensure that proper validation and sanitization are in place.
- Restrict File Upload Locations: Limit the locations where files can be uploaded to prevent attackers from uploading malicious files to sensitive areas of the server.
Long-term Solutions
- Implement Robust Input Validation: Implement robust input validation and sanitization techniques to prevent attackers from uploading malicious files. This includes checking file extensions, MIME types, and file content.
- Use a Web Application Firewall (WAF): Deploy a WAF to detect and block malicious file upload attempts.
- Regular Security Audits: Conduct regular security audits of your ColdFusion applications to identify and address potential vulnerabilities.
References
Detection & Scanning
Detecting CVE-2025-61808 involves identifying vulnerable Adobe ColdFusion versions and scanning for potential malicious file uploads. You can use vulnerability scanners to identify outdated ColdFusion installations. Additionally, monitor server logs for suspicious file upload activity and unusual file extensions.
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