CVE-2008-3362 in Wp Downloads Manager
Summary
by MITRE
Unrestricted file upload vulnerability in upload.php in the Giulio Ganci Wp Downloads Manager module 0.2 for WordPress allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code by uploading a file with an executable extension via the upfile parameter, then accessing it via a direct request to the file in wp-content/plugins/downloads-manager/upload/.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/02/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-3362 represents a critical unrestricted file upload flaw within the Giulio Ganci Wp Downloads Manager module version 0.2 for WordPress. This security weakness stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization mechanisms in the upload.php script, which fails to properly verify the file extensions and content of uploaded files. The vulnerability specifically affects the upfile parameter, allowing remote attackers to bypass security controls and upload malicious files directly to the web server. The flaw is categorized under CWE-434, which addresses the improper restriction of uploads of executable files, making it a direct descendant of the broader class of insecure file handling vulnerabilities.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability exploits the lack of proper file type validation and the absence of content inspection mechanisms in the WordPress plugin. Attackers can upload files with executable extensions such as .php, .asp, .jsp, or other server-side script extensions that would be interpreted and executed by the web server when accessed. The uploaded files are stored in the wp-content/plugins/downloads-manager/upload/ directory, which is directly accessible via web requests. This creates a pathway for remote code execution where an attacker can upload a malicious PHP shell or script, then access it through direct HTTP requests to the file location, effectively gaining control over the compromised web server.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it fundamentally compromises the integrity and confidentiality of the affected WordPress installation. Once an attacker successfully uploads and executes malicious code, they can perform various malicious activities including data exfiltration, privilege escalation, persistence establishment, and further network reconnaissance. The vulnerability affects not just the individual WordPress site but potentially the entire hosting environment, especially if multiple sites share the same server resources. This type of vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190, which covers the exploitation of vulnerabilities in web applications for remote code execution, and T1078, which addresses legitimate credentials usage for persistence.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate action including patching the affected plugin to version 0.3 or later, which contains proper file validation and sanitization mechanisms. Organizations should implement comprehensive file upload restrictions by validating file extensions against a strict whitelist, performing content inspection to verify file types, and storing uploaded files outside the web root directory. The principle of least privilege should be applied by ensuring that uploaded files have minimal permissions and cannot be executed directly. Additionally, implementing web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems can help detect and prevent exploitation attempts. Regular security audits and vulnerability assessments should be conducted to identify similar issues in other plugins and themes, as this vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper input validation and secure coding practices in web applications.