CVE-2014-8799 in DukaPress
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in the dp_img_resize function in php/dp-functions.php in the DukaPress plugin before 2.5.4 for WordPress allows remote attackers to read arbitrary files via a .. (dot dot) in the src parameter to lib/dp_image.php.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/13/2025
The CVE-2014-8799 vulnerability represents a critical directory traversal flaw within the DukaPress WordPress plugin ecosystem, specifically targeting the dp_img_resize function located in php/dp-functions.php. This vulnerability affects versions prior to 2.5.4 and creates a significant security risk by allowing remote attackers to access arbitrary files on the server through manipulation of the src parameter in lib/dp_image.php. The flaw stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization of user-supplied data, enabling malicious actors to traverse the file system hierarchy using standard directory traversal sequences such as .. (dot dot) notation.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability exploits the lack of proper path validation within the image processing functionality of the DukaPress plugin. When the dp_img_resize function processes image requests, it fails to adequately sanitize the src parameter, which is then used to construct file paths without proper boundary checks or normalization. This allows attackers to inject directory traversal sequences that bypass intended file access restrictions, potentially enabling them to read sensitive files such as configuration files, database credentials, wp-config.php, or other system files that should remain inaccessible to unauthorized users. The vulnerability operates at the file system level, making it particularly dangerous as it can expose critical system information and potentially lead to further exploitation opportunities.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability presents a severe risk to WordPress installations using the affected DukaPress plugin version. Attackers can leverage this flaw to gain unauthorized access to server resources, potentially leading to complete system compromise through information disclosure, credential theft, or subsequent attack vectors. The remote nature of the exploit means that attackers do not require physical access to the server or prior authentication, making the vulnerability particularly dangerous in public-facing web environments. The impact extends beyond simple file reading, as access to configuration files may reveal database connection details, administrative credentials, or other sensitive information that could facilitate further attacks within the network infrastructure.
The vulnerability aligns with CWE-22, which describes improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal or directory traversal attacks. This classification emphasizes the fundamental flaw in input validation and access control mechanisms within the application. From an ATT&CK framework perspective, this vulnerability maps to T1083 (File and Directory Discovery) and T1566 (Phishing with Malicious Attachments) as attackers can use the information gathered through directory traversal to craft more sophisticated social engineering campaigns or directly exploit discovered credentials. The attack surface is further expanded as this vulnerability can be combined with other exploits to create a complete compromise chain, making it a particularly attractive target for automated attack tools and advanced persistent threat actors.
The recommended mitigation strategy involves immediate patching of the DukaPress plugin to version 2.5.4 or later, which contains the necessary input validation fixes. Organizations should also implement additional security controls including web application firewalls that can detect and block directory traversal attempts, proper file access controls, and regular security audits of installed plugins and themes. Network segmentation and monitoring of file access patterns can help detect exploitation attempts, while comprehensive backup strategies ensure rapid recovery if compromise occurs. System administrators should also conduct regular vulnerability assessments to identify similar issues in other installed components and maintain up-to-date security practices to prevent similar vulnerabilities from being introduced through future plugin installations.