CVE-2008-5695 in WordPress
Summary
by MITRE
wp-admin/options.php in WordPress MU before 1.3.2, and WordPress 2.3.2 and earlier, does not properly validate requests to update an option, which allows remote authenticated users with manage_options and upload_files capabilities to execute arbitrary code by uploading a PHP script and adding this script s pathname to active_plugins.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/16/2024
This vulnerability exists in WordPress MU versions before 1.3.2 and WordPress versions before 2.3.2 where the wp-admin/options.php file fails to properly validate requests when updating options. The flaw specifically affects authenticated users who possess both manage_options and upload_files capabilities, creating a dangerous privilege escalation scenario. The vulnerability is categorized under CWE-22 as it involves improper validation of input data during option updates, allowing attackers to manipulate the system through crafted requests.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability exploits the lack of proper validation in the options.php file which processes updates to WordPress configuration options. When an authenticated user with sufficient privileges uploads a PHP script and subsequently adds the script's pathname to the active_plugins option, the system executes the malicious code without proper sanitization or verification. This creates a code execution vector that bypasses normal WordPress security mechanisms and allows attackers to run arbitrary commands on the server.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is significant as it transforms a user with upload capabilities into a system compromise actor. Attackers can leverage this flaw to upload web shells, backdoors, or other malicious payloads that persist on the server. The vulnerability essentially allows for complete system takeover since the attacker can execute any code they wish, potentially leading to data exfiltration, service disruption, or further network infiltration. This represents a critical security gap that undermines the integrity of WordPress installations.
Mitigation strategies should focus on immediate patching of affected WordPress versions to 1.3.2 or 2.3.2 respectively, as these releases contain the necessary validation fixes. Additionally, administrators should implement strict file upload validation mechanisms, restrict user privileges to the minimum required for their roles, and monitor plugin activation patterns for suspicious activity. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and script injection, and T1078 for valid accounts, as it exploits legitimate user credentials to achieve unauthorized code execution. Organizations should also implement network segmentation and monitoring solutions to detect anomalous plugin activation patterns that could indicate exploitation attempts.