CVE-2012-3575 in RBX Gallery
Summary
by MITRE
Unrestricted file upload vulnerability in uploader.php in the RBX Gallery plugin 2.1 for WordPress allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code by uploading a file with an executable extension, then accessing it via a direct request to the file in uploads/rbxslider.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/20/2025
The CVE-2012-3575 vulnerability represents a critical security flaw in the RBX Gallery plugin version 2.1 for WordPress, specifically within the uploader.php component. This issue stems from inadequate input validation and file extension filtering mechanisms that fail to properly restrict file uploads to only safe, non-executable formats. The vulnerability classifies under CWE-434 which specifically addresses unrestricted file upload, a category of flaws that frequently leads to remote code execution and complete system compromise. The flaw exists in the plugin's file upload handling logic where it does not sufficiently validate or sanitize the file extensions of uploaded content, creating an avenue for malicious actors to bypass security controls.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through a straightforward but dangerous process where an attacker uploads a malicious file with an executable extension such as .php, .asp, or .jsp to the WordPress installation's upload directory. The uploader.php script fails to properly validate the file type or extension, allowing the upload of potentially harmful files that can be executed on the web server. Once uploaded, these files become accessible through direct requests to the uploads/rbxslider directory, enabling attackers to execute arbitrary code on the target system with the privileges of the web server process. This direct access point bypasses typical WordPress security mechanisms and provides attackers with a persistent backdoor for further exploitation.
The operational impact of CVE-2012-3575 is severe and far-reaching, as it enables complete compromise of the affected WordPress installation. Attackers can execute malicious code, potentially leading to data theft, system infiltration, and the establishment of persistent access points. The vulnerability affects not only the immediate WordPress site but can also serve as a stepping stone for broader network attacks, particularly when the web server hosts multiple applications or when the compromised system has access to internal networks. The low complexity of exploitation makes this vulnerability particularly dangerous as it requires minimal technical skill to leverage, and the impact can be devastating for organizations relying on WordPress for their web presence. The vulnerability directly aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190 which involves exploiting vulnerabilities in web applications to gain initial access.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2012-3575 should focus on immediate patching of the RBX Gallery plugin to version 2.2 or later, which addresses the unrestricted file upload vulnerability. Organizations should implement comprehensive file upload restrictions that validate file extensions against a whitelist of approved formats, enforce strict MIME type checking, and implement proper file naming conventions to prevent executable files from being stored in web-accessible directories. Additional security measures include configuring web server rules to deny execution of files in upload directories, implementing content security policies, and conducting regular security audits of installed plugins and themes. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of maintaining up-to-date software components and implementing proper input validation controls as recommended by security frameworks such as the OWASP Top Ten and NIST cybersecurity guidelines.