Service Details:
Application | Business Use |
Role-Based Access Control (RBAC) | Define upload permissions based on user roles (e.g., admin, editor, general user) |
File Type Filtering | Accept only specific file formats (e.g., .jpg, .png, .pdf, .docx) |
File Size Limitation | Maximum file size configurable (e.g., 5 MB per file). |
Virus Scanning | Use antivirus software (e.g., ClamAV or third-party API) to scan every uploaded file before storing |
File Renaming and Sanitization | Sanitize and rename uploaded files using UUIDs or hashes to prevent code execution and overwrite iss |
Objectives | Enable authenticated users to upload files |
User Authentication | Only registered and logged-in users can upload files |
Purpose:
A secure file upload system allows users to upload files to a server safely while protecting the application from potential threats such as malware, unauthorized access, or server compromise.
Authentication and Authorization:
Only authenticated users should be allowed to upload files. Role-based access controls can be implemented to define who can upload, view, or manage files.
File Type Validation:
The system must allow only specific file types (e.g., .jpg, .pdf, .docx) by checking MIME types and file extensions to prevent malicious uploads like .exe or .php.
File Size Limitations:
To prevent denial-of-service (DoS) attacks, set maximum file size limits based on system capacity and use case.
Virus and Malware Scanning:
Uploaded files should be scanned using antivirus software or third-party APIs to detect and remove malicious content.
File Name Sanitization:
Rename files on upload to avoid executing scripts. Remove or replace special characters to prevent directory traversal or command injection attacks.
Storage Considerations:
Files should be stored outside the web root or in cloud storage to avoid direct access via URLs. Use hashed or random file names for added security.
HTTPS and Encryption:
Always use HTTPS to ensure files are transmitted securely. Sensitive files should be encrypted during storage.
Logging and Monitoring:
Maintain logs of upload activity to detect and investigate suspicious behavior.
Regular Security Updates:
Continuously update libraries, frameworks, and antivirus tools to guard against new vulnerabilities.