Privacy at Risk: EXIF Metadata Exposure in User-Uploaded Images
Introduction
The protection of privacy is of utmost importance in the era of digital communication. This vulnerability relates to the exposure of EXIF metadata in images uploaded to the Comments, Question, and Answer sections of our platform. This metadata contains private information like location (latitude/longitude), camera model name, and creation date. Malicious actors could use this information to reveal user data without authorization.
Vulnerability Details
Description
After careful investigation, it was found that photos uploaded using the Comments, Question, and Answer features do not have their EXIF metadata removed. This error makes it possible for an attacker to steal these photos and obtain private data that is contained in the EXIF metadata.
Impact
This vulnerability has significant implications since it allows an attacker to obtain sensitive information, such as the location of the photo, from submitted images. This could result in the disclosure of personal information without authorization, thereby breaching user privacy and eroding platform confidence.
Validation Steps
Steps to Reproduce
- Log in to the application using valid credentials: https://example.com/
- Post a question in the application, including an image containing metadata. The image used is DSCN0012.jpg.
- Submit the question, making it publicly available.
- Repeat the process for commenting on any publicly available question. Example comment: https://example.com/questions/
- Use an EXIF metadata extraction tool (e.g., https://onlineexifviewer.com/) to confirm the presence of sensitive information in the uploaded images.
Recommended Fix
Strip EXIF Metadata Upon Upload
After an image is uploaded, all EXIF metadata should be systematically stripped from the file. This ensures that no sensitive information is retained, preserving user privacy.
Conclusion
The exposure of private information via EXIF metadata in user-uploaded images is concerning in a world where digital security is paramount. Assembling the suggested fix and best practices will also help create a more secure and safe experience for users.
