CVE-2024-24059 is a medium-severity vulnerability affecting springboot-manager version 1.6, characterized as an Arbitrary File Upload flaw. The core issue is that the system does not properly filter or restrict the suffixes (file extensions) of uploaded files, allowing an attacker to upload potentially malicious files. This vulnerability falls under CWE-79, which typically relates to improper neutralization of input, often associated with Cross-Site Scripting (XSS), but here it is linked to file upload validation failures. The CVSS 3.1 base score is 6.1, indicating a medium severity level, with the vector AV:N/AC:L/PR:N/UI:R/S:C/C:L/I:L/A:N. This means the vulnerability can be exploited remotely over the network with low attack complexity, requires no privileges but does require user interaction, and has a scope change (S:C) indicating that exploitation affects resources beyond the vulnerable component. The impact on confidentiality and integrity is low, while availability is not impacted. Although no known exploits are currently in the wild and no patches have been linked, the vulnerability poses a risk because arbitrary file upload can lead to further attacks such as remote code execution, web shell deployment, or defacement if the uploaded files are executed or served by the application. The lack of suffix filtering means attackers can bypass simple extension-based restrictions, potentially uploading executable scripts or malicious payloads. The vulnerability is published and tracked by MITRE and CISA, highlighting its recognized security concern.

For European organizations using springboot-manager v1.6, this vulnerability could lead to unauthorized file uploads that may compromise the confidentiality and integrity of their systems. Attackers could upload malicious scripts or files that, if executed or accessed, might allow unauthorized data access, data tampering, or further exploitation such as privilege escalation or lateral movement within the network. The scope change in the CVSS vector suggests that the impact could extend beyond the immediate application, potentially affecting other components or data stores. This is particularly concerning for organizations handling sensitive or regulated data under GDPR, as any data breach or integrity compromise could lead to significant legal and financial repercussions. Additionally, the requirement for user interaction means phishing or social engineering could be leveraged to trick users into uploading malicious files, increasing the attack surface. The absence of known exploits currently reduces immediate risk, but the vulnerability’s nature makes it a candidate for future exploitation. Organizations in sectors such as finance, healthcare, and critical infrastructure in Europe, which often rely on Java-based applications and Spring Boot frameworks, may be particularly at risk if they deploy this vulnerable version without adequate controls.

To mitigate this vulnerability, European organizations should implement strict server-side validation of uploaded files beyond simple suffix checks. This includes validating file MIME types, using allowlists for acceptable file types, and scanning uploaded files with antivirus or malware detection tools. Employing content inspection and sandboxing uploaded files before processing can reduce risk. Additionally, restricting upload directories to non-executable locations and disabling execution permissions on upload folders can prevent malicious files from being executed. Implementing strong authentication and authorization controls around file upload functionality can limit exposure. User interaction requirements suggest training users to recognize phishing or social engineering attempts related to file uploads is important. Organizations should monitor logs for suspicious upload activity and consider deploying web application firewalls (WAFs) with rules to detect and block malicious upload attempts. Since no patches are currently linked, organizations should track vendor advisories for updates or consider upgrading to newer, secure versions of springboot-manager or alternative solutions. Finally, conducting regular security assessments and penetration testing focusing on file upload mechanisms will help identify and remediate weaknesses proactively.