CVE-2014-8585 in Download Manager
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in the WordPress Download Manager plugin for WordPress allows remote attackers to read arbitrary files via a .. (dot dot) in the fname parameter to (1) views/file_download.php or (2) file_download.php.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/21/2025
The vulnerability CVE-2014-8585 represents a critical directory traversal flaw within the WordPress Download Manager plugin, a widely used component for managing file downloads on wordpress websites. This vulnerability exists in the file handling mechanisms of the plugin and specifically affects versions prior to 3.1.1. The flaw allows remote attackers to exploit the fname parameter in two distinct file endpoints: views/file_download.php and file_download.php, creating a significant security risk for wordpress installations that utilize this plugin.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation within the plugin's file download functionality. When the fname parameter is processed without proper sanitization or path validation, attackers can manipulate the input to traverse directories beyond the intended download directory. The use of .. (dot dot) sequences in the fname parameter enables attackers to move up the directory structure and access files that should remain protected. This type of vulnerability is classified as CWE-22, which specifically addresses improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal or directory traversal attacks.
The operational impact of CVE-2014-8585 extends beyond simple unauthorized file access, as it can potentially expose sensitive system information including configuration files, database credentials, wp-config.php, and other critical files that may contain authentication details or system configurations. Attackers could leverage this vulnerability to gain insights into the underlying system architecture, potentially leading to further exploitation opportunities such as privilege escalation or complete system compromise. The vulnerability affects any wordpress installation using the affected plugin version, making it particularly dangerous given the widespread adoption of both wordpress and this specific plugin within the web application ecosystem.
From a threat modeling perspective, this vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1083 (File and Directory Discovery) and T1566 (Phishing with Malicious Attachments), as attackers could use the directory traversal to access sensitive files and potentially create more sophisticated attack vectors. The attack surface is particularly concerning because the vulnerability does not require authentication to exploit, making it accessible to any remote user who can interact with the wordpress site. Organizations running vulnerable versions of the WordPress Download Manager plugin face significant risk of data breaches, as the vulnerability can be exploited through simple HTTP requests without requiring advanced technical skills or privileged access to the system.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2014-8585 primarily involve immediate patching of the WordPress Download Manager plugin to version 3.1.1 or later, which contains the necessary input validation fixes. System administrators should also implement additional protective measures including restricting file access permissions, implementing web application firewalls that can detect and block directory traversal attempts, and conducting thorough security audits of all installed plugins. The vulnerability highlights the importance of input validation and proper access control mechanisms within web applications, particularly those handling file operations. Organizations should also consider implementing principle of least privilege for file system access and regularly updating all plugins and themes to ensure protection against known vulnerabilities. Additionally, monitoring for suspicious file access patterns and implementing proper logging of file download activities can help detect exploitation attempts and provide forensic evidence for incident response activities.