CVE-2013-0291 in NextGEN Gallery Plugin
Summary
by MITRE
NextGEN Gallery Plugin for WordPress 1.9.10 and 1.9.11 has a Path Disclosure Vulnerability
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/27/2025
The NextGEN Gallery plugin for WordPress versions 1.9.10 and 1.9.11 contains a path disclosure vulnerability that reveals sensitive server path information to unauthorized users. This vulnerability arises from improper error handling within the plugin's code structure, specifically when processing certain HTTP requests that trigger internal file operations. The flaw allows attackers to obtain detailed server path information through crafted requests that expose the underlying filesystem structure of the WordPress installation.
This vulnerability falls under CWE-209, which describes "Information Exposure Through an Error Message," and represents a classic case of insufficient error handling that inadvertently provides attackers with system-level information. The path disclosure occurs when the plugin fails to properly sanitize input parameters or handle exceptions during image processing operations, leading to the exposure of absolute file paths that can include the full directory structure of the web server. Such information disclosure creates a significant risk for attackers as it provides them with precise knowledge of the server's filesystem layout, including the location of WordPress core files, plugin directories, and potentially sensitive configuration files.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it enables attackers to perform more sophisticated attacks by leveraging the exposed path information. Security researchers have noted that path disclosure vulnerabilities often serve as a foundation for subsequent exploitation techniques, including directory traversal attacks and privilege escalation attempts. In the context of WordPress environments, this vulnerability could allow attackers to map the entire directory structure of the server, potentially identifying other vulnerable components or misconfigurations. The exposure of absolute paths also facilitates social engineering attacks and can provide attackers with additional reconnaissance data needed for more targeted exploitation.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability involve immediate patching of the affected NextGEN Gallery plugin versions to the latest available releases that contain proper error handling mechanisms. System administrators should implement input validation and sanitization measures to prevent malformed requests from triggering path disclosure errors. Additionally, web application firewalls can be configured to monitor and block suspicious request patterns that may lead to path disclosure attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper error handling practices in web applications, aligning with ATT&CK technique T1212 which covers "Exploitation for Credential Access" through information gathering activities. Organizations should also implement regular security assessments of their WordPress installations to identify similar path disclosure vulnerabilities across all installed plugins and themes, as these issues often remain undetected for extended periods due to their passive nature of information exposure rather than active exploitation.