CVE-2014-4937 in bookx
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in includes/bookx_export.php BookX plugin 1.7 for WordPress allows remote attackers to read arbitrary files via a .. (dot dot) in the file parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/07/2025
The CVE-2014-4937 vulnerability represents a critical directory traversal flaw within the BookX plugin version 1.7 for WordPress platforms. This security weakness specifically affects the includes/bookx_export.php file and enables remote attackers to access arbitrary files on the web server through manipulation of the file parameter using directory traversal sequences. The vulnerability arises from insufficient input validation and sanitization within the plugin's file handling mechanism, creating an exploitable path that allows attackers to navigate beyond the intended directory boundaries.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the plugin's failure to properly validate user-supplied input in the file parameter. When attackers submit malicious input containing .. (dot dot) sequences, the application processes these paths without adequate restrictions, allowing unauthorized access to files outside the intended scope. This flaw directly maps to CWE-22, which defines improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal or directory traversal attacks. The vulnerability exists because the plugin does not employ proper input filtering or canonicalization techniques to ensure that file paths remain within designated directories.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability poses significant risks to WordPress installations using the affected BookX plugin. Attackers can leverage this weakness to access sensitive files such as configuration files, database credentials, user information, and potentially system files that could provide further attack vectors. The remote nature of the exploit means that attackers do not require local system access or authentication credentials to exploit the vulnerability, making it particularly dangerous in publicly accessible web environments. This type of attack falls under the ATT&CK technique T1083, which involves discovering files and directories, and T1566, which encompasses credential harvesting through various means.
The impact of exploitation extends beyond simple file access, as successful traversal attacks can lead to complete system compromise through information disclosure, privilege escalation, or further attack vectors. Organizations running vulnerable WordPress installations face potential data breaches, unauthorized access to sensitive information, and possible complete system takeover. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of input validation in web applications and highlights the risks associated with third-party plugins that may not undergo rigorous security testing. Security professionals should note that this vulnerability represents a fundamental flaw in the plugin's architecture that requires immediate remediation through either patching or complete removal of the vulnerable component.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2014-4937 should prioritize immediate patching of the BookX plugin to the latest version that addresses the directory traversal vulnerability. Organizations should also implement proper input validation measures, including the use of allowlists for file parameters, canonical path resolution, and strict path validation routines. Network-based protections such as web application firewalls can provide additional layers of defense by filtering out suspicious path traversal sequences. Regular security audits and vulnerability assessments should be conducted to identify similar flaws in other plugins and themes. The vulnerability underscores the necessity of maintaining up-to-date software components and implementing comprehensive security practices that include proper input validation, least privilege access controls, and regular security monitoring to prevent exploitation of similar weaknesses in web applications.