CVE-2013-20002 in Elemin
Summary
by MITRE • 06/17/2021
Elemin allows remote attackers to upload and execute arbitrary PHP code via the Themify framework (before 1.2.2) wp-content/themes/elemin/themify/themify-ajax.php file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/21/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2013-20002 represents a critical remote code execution flaw within the Elemin WordPress theme framework. This security issue affects versions of the Themify framework prior to 1.2.2 and stems from improper input validation mechanisms within the wp-content/themes/elemin/themify/themify-ajax.php file. The flaw allows malicious actors to upload and subsequently execute arbitrary PHP code on vulnerable systems, creating a severe attack surface that could lead to complete system compromise.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the exploitation of insecure file upload functionality within the theme framework's AJAX handling mechanism. Attackers can leverage this weakness by crafting malicious PHP payloads and uploading them through the vulnerable endpoint. The themify-ajax.php file fails to properly validate or sanitize file uploads, enabling attackers to bypass security restrictions and execute code with the privileges of the web server. This type of vulnerability falls under CWE-434 which specifically addresses insecure file upload scenarios where applications accept and process untrusted files without adequate validation. The flaw demonstrates poor input sanitization practices and inadequate access controls that are fundamental requirements in secure application development.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends far beyond simple code execution capabilities. Once an attacker successfully exploits this flaw, they gain the ability to establish persistent access to the compromised system, potentially leading to data breaches, system takeover, or deployment of additional malicious payloads. The vulnerability affects WordPress installations using the Elemin theme with the Themify framework, making it particularly dangerous given the widespread adoption of WordPress as a content management system. Organizations running vulnerable versions face significant risk of unauthorized access, data exfiltration, and potential use as a pivot point for attacking internal network infrastructure. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190 which describes the exploitation of vulnerabilities in web applications to gain initial access.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2013-20002 require immediate action to upgrade to the patched version 1.2.2 or later of the Themify framework. System administrators should implement comprehensive security measures including file upload restrictions, proper input validation, and regular security audits of WordPress installations. Additional protective measures include implementing web application firewalls, restricting file upload permissions, and conducting thorough vulnerability assessments of all installed themes and plugins. Organizations should also establish monitoring procedures to detect suspicious file upload activities and ensure that all WordPress components remain updated with the latest security patches. The vulnerability underscores the importance of maintaining current security practices and the critical need for regular security assessments to identify and remediate similar weaknesses in web applications.