CVE-2012-4915 in Google Doc Embedder
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in the Google Doc Embedder plugin before 2.5.4 for WordPress allows remote attackers to read arbitrary files via a .. (dot dot) in the file parameter to libs/pdf.php.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/13/2025
The vulnerability described in CVE-2012-4915 represents a critical directory traversal flaw within the Google Doc Embedder plugin for WordPress systems. This security weakness specifically affects versions prior to 2.5.4 and creates a significant risk for WordPress websites that utilize this plugin for embedding Google Documents. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation within the plugin's file handling mechanism, allowing malicious actors to manipulate file parameters and access unauthorized system resources.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs through the manipulation of the file parameter in the libs/pdf.php script. Attackers can exploit this by injecting .. (dot dot) sequences into the file parameter, which enables them to traverse the directory structure and access files that should remain protected. This type of attack directly maps to CWE-22, which categorizes directory traversal vulnerabilities as weaknesses that allow attackers to access files outside of the intended directory. The flaw essentially bypasses normal file access controls by manipulating the path resolution mechanism within the plugin's code.
The operational impact of CVE-2012-4915 extends beyond simple file access, as it can potentially expose sensitive system information including configuration files, database credentials, user data, and other confidential resources. WordPress installations using vulnerable versions of the Google Doc Embedder plugin become susceptible to data breaches, privilege escalation attacks, and potential system compromise. The vulnerability can be exploited remotely without requiring authentication, making it particularly dangerous for publicly accessible websites. This aligns with ATT&CK technique T1213.002 which covers data from local system, where adversaries can access sensitive files through path traversal techniques.
The exploitation of this vulnerability demonstrates how seemingly minor input validation flaws can create substantial security risks in web applications. The Google Doc Embedder plugin's failure to properly sanitize user input allows attackers to craft malicious requests that can access any file on the server where the WordPress installation resides. This represents a classic example of insufficient input sanitization and improper access control mechanisms. Organizations should implement comprehensive security measures including regular plugin updates, proper input validation, and network segmentation to prevent exploitation. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of adhering to secure coding practices as outlined in OWASP Top Ten and other industry security frameworks, particularly focusing on preventing path traversal attacks through proper parameter validation and access control implementation.
Mitigation strategies should include immediate patching to version 2.5.4 or later of the Google Doc Embedder plugin, implementation of web application firewalls to detect and block suspicious path traversal attempts, and regular security auditing of installed WordPress plugins. Additionally, administrators should consider implementing principle of least privilege access controls and monitoring for unusual file access patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of keeping all software components updated and maintaining robust security monitoring practices to prevent unauthorized access to sensitive system resources.