CVE-2014-8334 in WP-DBManager
Summary
by MITRE
The WP-DBManager (aka Database Manager) plugin before 2.7.2 for WordPress allows remote authenticated users to execute arbitrary commands via shell metacharacters in the (1) $backup[ filepath ] (aka "Path to Backup:" field) or (2) $backup[ mysqldumppath ] variable.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/03/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2014-8334 affects the WP-DBManager plugin for WordPress, specifically versions prior to 2.7.2, presenting a critical command injection flaw that enables authenticated attackers to execute arbitrary system commands. This vulnerability resides within the plugin's handling of backup path configurations, where user-supplied input is inadequately sanitized before being processed in shell contexts. The flaw manifests when administrators configure backup paths or MySQL dump locations through the plugin's administrative interface, creating a pathway for malicious command execution that bypasses normal WordPress security controls.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper input validation and sanitization within the plugin's backup management functions. Attackers who have authenticated access to the WordPress administrative panel can manipulate the $backup[filepath] or $backup[mysqldumppath] variables by injecting shell metacharacters such as semicolons, ampersands, or backticks. When these malicious inputs are processed through shell commands without proper escaping or filtering, the system executes unintended commands with the privileges of the web server process. This represents a classic command injection vulnerability that aligns with CWE-77 and follows patterns commonly associated with CWE-94, where untrusted data flows into executable code.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation, as it provides attackers with complete system control over the affected WordPress installation. Successful exploitation allows malicious actors to execute arbitrary code with the web server's privileges, potentially leading to full system compromise, data exfiltration, or the installation of backdoors. The vulnerability affects not only the WordPress application itself but also the underlying operating system, as commands execute in the shell context with the permissions of the web server user. This creates a significant risk for environments where WordPress is hosted on shared or poorly configured servers where web server privileges may be elevated.
Security professionals should consider this vulnerability in the context of the MITRE ATT&CK framework, particularly under the execution tactic where adversaries leverage command injection to run malicious code. The vulnerability demonstrates how plugin security flaws can provide persistent access paths for attackers, making it a critical concern for organizations maintaining WordPress installations. Mitigation strategies include immediate upgrade to WP-DBManager version 2.7.2 or later, which implements proper input sanitization and shell escaping mechanisms. Additional defensive measures should encompass regular plugin audits, implementing web application firewalls, restricting administrative access through multi-factor authentication, and monitoring for unusual command execution patterns in system logs. Organizations should also consider implementing principle of least privilege for web server accounts and maintaining regular automated backups to facilitate recovery from potential compromise scenarios.