CVE-2013-7240 in Advanced Dewplayer
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in download-file.php in the Advanced Dewplayer plugin 1.2 for WordPress allows remote attackers to read arbitrary files via a .. (dot dot) in the dew_file parameter.
Be aware that VulDB is the high quality source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/01/2025
The CVE-2013-7240 vulnerability represents a critical directory traversal flaw in the Advanced Dewplayer WordPress plugin version 1.2, which exposes systems to unauthorized file access and potential data breaches. This vulnerability specifically affects the download-file.php script within the plugin's functionality, where improper input validation allows malicious actors to manipulate file paths through the dew_file parameter. The issue stems from the plugin's failure to properly sanitize user-supplied input before using it in file operations, creating an opportunity for attackers to navigate the file system beyond intended boundaries. The vulnerability enables remote attackers to access sensitive files on the server that should normally be restricted, including configuration files, database credentials, and other potentially compromising information. This type of vulnerability falls under the CWE-22 category, which specifically addresses improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal or directory traversal attacks. The attack vector is particularly dangerous because it operates over HTTP requests, making it easily exploitable without requiring any special privileges or local access to the target system.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple file reading capabilities, as it can lead to complete system compromise when combined with other attack vectors. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to access WordPress configuration files such as wp-config.php, which typically contain database credentials and cryptographic keys that could enable further attacks against the database or other system components. The vulnerability also poses risks to server-side includes, plugin files, and potentially even system-level files that could provide attackers with insights into the server's architecture and configuration. When exploited, this vulnerability can result in unauthorized data exfiltration, system infiltration, and potentially full administrative control over the compromised WordPress installation. The attack surface is particularly concerning given that WordPress plugins are frequently targeted due to their often outdated or poorly maintained codebases, making vulnerabilities like this one highly attractive to threat actors seeking to compromise web applications.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2013-7240 should prioritize immediate plugin updates to versions that address the directory traversal vulnerability, as the original plugin version 1.2 contains known security flaws that have been documented and patched in subsequent releases. System administrators should implement proper input validation and sanitization measures, ensuring that all user-supplied parameters undergo strict validation before being processed in file operations. The principle of least privilege should be enforced by restricting file system access permissions for the web server, limiting the potential damage from successful exploitation attempts. Network-level defenses such as web application firewalls can provide additional protection by monitoring and filtering suspicious file path patterns in HTTP requests. Organizations should also conduct regular security audits of their WordPress installations, including comprehensive plugin and theme reviews to identify and remediate similar vulnerabilities. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of following security best practices outlined in the OWASP Top Ten and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1213.002 for credential access through web application vulnerabilities, emphasizing the need for proper input validation and secure coding practices in web application development. Regular patch management processes should be implemented to ensure timely updates of all WordPress components, as this vulnerability was present in a specific plugin version that had been superseded by security patches.