CVE-2012-6649 in WP GPX Maps Plugin
Summary
by MITRE
WordPress WP GPX Maps Plugin 1.1.21 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via improper file upload.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/23/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2012-6649 affects the WordPress WP GPX Maps plugin version 1.1.21 and represents a critical security flaw that enables remote code execution through improper file upload handling. This issue resides within the plugin's file upload functionality where insufficient validation mechanisms allow attackers to upload malicious files that can be executed as PHP code on the target server. The vulnerability demonstrates a classic improper input validation weakness that has been consistently categorized under CWE-434, which addresses the improper restriction of uploads of executable files.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker uploads a specially crafted file with a PHP extension or a file that can be interpreted as PHP code by the web server. The plugin fails to properly validate file types, extensions, or content, allowing the upload of malicious payloads that can execute arbitrary commands on the server. This flaw essentially creates a backdoor for attackers to gain unauthorized access to the WordPress installation and potentially the underlying server infrastructure. The vulnerability directly relates to ATT&CK technique T1190, which involves using vulnerabilities in web applications to execute code, and T1059 which covers command and scripting interpreters for executing code.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe as it provides attackers with complete control over the affected WordPress installation. Once exploited, attackers can upload additional malicious files, modify existing content, steal sensitive data, or use the compromised system as a launchpad for further attacks within the network. The vulnerability affects any WordPress installation running the vulnerable plugin version, making it particularly dangerous in environments where multiple sites are running the same outdated plugin. The lack of proper file upload validation creates a persistent threat that can be exploited repeatedly until the plugin is updated or the vulnerability is patched.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate action to update the WP GPX Maps plugin to a version that addresses the file upload validation issues. System administrators should also implement additional security measures such as restricting file upload directories, implementing proper file type validation, and configuring web server rules to prevent execution of uploaded files in web-accessible directories. The vulnerability highlights the importance of maintaining up-to-date plugins and implementing proper security controls around file upload functionality, as outlined in OWASP Top 10 2021 category A01:2021 - Broken Access Control and A04:2021 - Insecure Design. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls and regular security assessments to identify and remediate similar vulnerabilities in their WordPress installations.