CVE-2012-3814 in Font Uploader
Summary
by MITRE
Unrestricted file upload vulnerability in font-upload.php in the Font Uploader plugin 1.2.4 for WordPress allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code by uploading a PHP file with a .php.ttf extension, then accessing it via a direct request to the file in font-uploader/fonts.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/30/2024
The vulnerability described in CVE-2012-3814 represents a critical security flaw in the Font Uploader WordPress plugin version 1.2.4 that enables remote code execution through unrestricted file upload capabilities. This issue falls under the category of insecure file handling and demonstrates how web applications can be compromised when proper input validation and file type restrictions are not implemented. The vulnerability specifically targets the font-upload.php script which processes font file uploads without adequate sanitization measures, creating a pathway for malicious actors to inject and execute arbitrary code on the affected system.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through a carefully crafted file upload attack where an attacker uploads a malicious PHP file with a .php.ttf extension. This filename extension manipulation bypasses typical file type validation checks that might only inspect the file extension or MIME type. The vulnerability stems from the plugin's failure to properly validate file content and enforce strict file type restrictions, allowing files with executable code to be stored on the web server. When the attacker subsequently accesses the uploaded file through a direct request to the font-uploader/fonts directory, the web server executes the PHP code with the privileges of the web application, potentially enabling full system compromise.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and multifaceted, as it provides attackers with a straightforward method to achieve remote code execution on WordPress installations. This capability allows adversaries to gain unauthorized access to the server, potentially leading to data theft, service disruption, or further lateral movement within the network. The vulnerability affects all versions of the Font Uploader plugin up to version 1.2.4, making it particularly dangerous as many WordPress installations may be running outdated plugin versions. The attack vector is relatively simple and does not require complex exploitation techniques, making it attractive to both skilled and less experienced attackers.
This vulnerability aligns with CWE-434 which describes "Unrestricted Upload of File with Dangerous Type" and demonstrates how inadequate input validation and file handling can create persistent security risks. From an ATT&CK perspective, this vulnerability maps to T1190 "Exploit Public-Facing Application" and T1059 "Command and Scripting Interpreter" as it allows attackers to execute commands through web-based exploitation. Organizations should immediately implement mitigations including updating to the latest version of the Font Uploader plugin, implementing strict file upload validation, restricting file permissions on upload directories, and monitoring for suspicious file uploads. Additionally, network-level protections such as web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems should be configured to detect and block malicious file upload attempts, while regular security audits should verify that no malicious files have been successfully uploaded to the system.