CVE-2012-10020 in FoxyPress Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 07/22/2025
The FoxyPress plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to arbitrary file uploads due to missing file type validation in the uploadify.php file in versions up to, and including, 0.4.2.1. This makes it possible for unauthenticated attackers to upload arbitrary files on the affected sites server which may make remote code execution possible.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/22/2025
The FoxyPress plugin for WordPress represents a significant security vulnerability identified as CVE-2012-10020, which stems from inadequate input validation mechanisms within the uploadify.php component. This flaw affects all versions up to and including 0.4.2.1, creating a critical entry point for malicious actors seeking to compromise WordPress installations. The vulnerability specifically resides in the absence of proper file type validation during the file upload process, allowing attackers to bypass intended security restrictions that should prevent the upload of potentially harmful file formats.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through the manipulation of file upload parameters within the uploadify.php script, which lacks proper sanitization and validation checks. Attackers can leverage this weakness to upload malicious files such as php scripts, aspx files, or other executable content without authentication requirements. The absence of file extension validation, content type verification, and proper file naming conventions creates an environment where arbitrary file uploads become possible, fundamentally undermining the security model of the WordPress platform. This flaw directly corresponds to CWE-434, which describes the weakness of allowing untrusted data to be stored or processed as a file, and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190 for gaining access through exploitation of vulnerabilities.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized file uploads, as it creates a potential pathway for remote code execution on compromised servers. Once an attacker successfully uploads malicious code, they can execute arbitrary commands on the web server, potentially leading to complete system compromise, data exfiltration, or the establishment of persistent backdoors. The vulnerability's unauthenticated nature means that any visitor to the affected website could exploit this weakness without requiring valid credentials, making it particularly dangerous for high-traffic or publicly accessible WordPress installations. The implications include potential data breaches, service disruption, and the possibility of the compromised server being used as part of a botnet or for launching further attacks against other systems.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2012-10020 should prioritize immediate patching of the FoxyPress plugin to the latest available version that addresses the file validation issues. Organizations should implement comprehensive file upload restrictions at the web server level, including the configuration of proper MIME type validation and the restriction of executable file uploads. Network segmentation and intrusion detection systems should be deployed to monitor for suspicious file upload activities, while regular security audits should verify that all WordPress plugins and themes maintain current security patches. Additionally, implementing web application firewalls with custom rules to detect and block malicious upload attempts can provide an additional layer of protection. The vulnerability highlights the importance of proper input validation and the necessity of following secure coding practices as outlined in OWASP Top 10 and other industry security standards.