CVE-2012-1205 in relocate-upload
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in relocate-upload.php in Relocate Upload plugin before 0.20 for WordPress allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the abspath parameter.
Once again VulDB remains the best source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/21/2025
The CVE-2012-1205 vulnerability represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw in the Relocate Upload WordPress plugin, specifically affecting versions prior to 0.20. This vulnerability exists within the relocate-upload.php script and demonstrates a classic security weakness that has been documented in various security frameworks including CWE-98 and CWE-88. The flaw enables attackers to manipulate the abspath parameter through URL injection, creating a pathway for arbitrary code execution on vulnerable systems. This type of vulnerability falls under the broader category of insecure direct object references and improper input validation, both of which are commonly exploited in web application attacks.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker crafts a malicious URL and injects it into the abspath parameter of the relocate-upload.php endpoint. When the WordPress plugin processes this parameter without proper validation or sanitization, it inadvertently includes and executes the remote file specified in the URL. This behavior directly violates secure coding principles and represents a failure in input validation mechanisms. The vulnerability operates at the application layer and can be classified under ATT&CK technique T1190 - Exploit Public-Facing Application, demonstrating how attackers can leverage web application flaws to gain unauthorized access. The flaw essentially allows attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code on the target system, potentially leading to complete system compromise.
The operational impact of CVE-2012-1205 is severe and multifaceted, as it provides attackers with remote code execution capabilities on WordPress installations using vulnerable versions of the Relocate Upload plugin. This vulnerability can be exploited to install backdoors, steal sensitive data, modify website content, or use the compromised system as a launch point for further attacks within a network. The vulnerability affects any WordPress installation that utilizes the Relocate Upload plugin version 0.19 or earlier, making it particularly dangerous as WordPress remains one of the most widely used content management systems. The exploitation process typically requires minimal technical skill, as attackers can leverage automated tools to identify and exploit the vulnerability, making it a preferred target for mass exploitation campaigns. Organizations with vulnerable systems face potential data breaches, service disruption, and reputational damage when this vulnerability is successfully exploited.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2012-1205 focus primarily on immediate remediation through plugin updates and proper input validation implementation. The most effective solution involves upgrading to Relocate Upload plugin version 0.20 or later, which contains patches addressing the remote file inclusion vulnerability. Additionally, administrators should implement proper input validation and sanitization mechanisms to prevent URL injection attacks, following secure coding practices such as those outlined in the OWASP Secure Coding Practices. Network-level protections including web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems can provide additional defense-in-depth measures. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of regular security audits and patch management processes, as this flaw could have been prevented through timely updates and proper security monitoring. Organizations should also consider implementing the principle of least privilege and restricting file upload capabilities to minimize potential attack surfaces. The remediation process should include thorough testing of updated plugins to ensure compatibility and functionality while maintaining overall system security posture.