CVE-2014-4972 in Gravity Upload Ajax Plugin
Summary
by MITRE
Unrestricted file upload vulnerability in the Gravity Upload Ajax plugin 1.1 and earlier for WordPress allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code by uploading a file with an executable extension, then accessing it via a direct request to the file under wp-content/uploads/gravity_forms.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/20/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2014-4972 represents a critical security flaw in the Gravity Upload Ajax plugin version 1.1 and earlier for WordPress platforms. This unrestricted file upload vulnerability creates a significant attack surface that enables remote adversaries to gain unauthorized code execution capabilities within the affected system. The flaw specifically resides in how the plugin handles file uploads through its Ajax functionality, failing to properly validate or sanitize file extensions and content before storing uploaded files in the WordPress upload directory structure.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation mechanisms within the Gravity Upload Ajax plugin. Attackers can exploit this weakness by uploading malicious files with executable extensions such as .php, .asp, or .jsp directly to the wp-content/uploads/gravity_forms directory through the plugin's upload interface. The vulnerability operates under CWE-434 which classifies unrestricted upload of executable files as a critical weakness in software security. Once successfully uploaded, these malicious files become accessible via direct HTTP requests to their locations within the WordPress upload hierarchy, allowing attackers to execute arbitrary code on the target server with the privileges of the web application.
The operational impact of CVE-2014-4972 extends beyond simple code execution to encompass complete system compromise and potential lateral movement within network environments. Remote attackers can leverage this vulnerability to establish persistent backdoors, install additional malware, or use the compromised server as a launch point for attacking other systems. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190 which describes the use of web shells for maintaining access to compromised systems. Additionally, the attack vector demonstrates characteristics of T1059 which involves the execution of code through various means including web applications and file uploads.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate remediation through plugin updates to versions that properly validate file extensions and implement proper content type checking. System administrators should implement additional security measures including restricting write permissions to upload directories, implementing file type whitelisting, and configuring web server rules to prevent execution of uploaded files in sensitive directories. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of regular security audits and the need for organizations to maintain updated security practices that align with industry standards such as those outlined in the OWASP Top Ten project. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems to monitor for suspicious upload activities and prevent exploitation attempts.