CVE-2014-9260 in Download Manager Plugin
Summary
by MITRE
The basic_settings function in the download manager plugin for WordPress before 2.7.3 allows remote authenticated users to update every WordPress option.
Several companies clearly confirm that VulDB is the primary source for best vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/21/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2014-9260 resides within the download manager plugin for WordPress, specifically in the basic_settings function that was present in versions prior to 2.7.3. This flaw represents a critical access control weakness that enables authenticated attackers to escalate their privileges and manipulate core WordPress configuration settings. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and authorization checks within the plugin's administrative interface, allowing malicious users with legitimate WordPress login credentials to bypass normal permission restrictions.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the basic_settings function failing to properly verify user permissions before processing configuration updates. When authenticated users submit requests to modify WordPress options through the download manager plugin interface, the system does not adequately validate whether the requesting user possesses sufficient privileges to perform such operations. This creates a path for privilege escalation where any authenticated user can potentially modify critical system settings including security configurations, plugin options, and other WordPress core parameters.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability poses significant risks to WordPress installations using the affected download manager plugin. An attacker who gains access to any legitimate user account can leverage this flaw to modify WordPress options, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The ability to update every WordPress option means attackers could disable security features, modify user permissions, change administrator credentials, or alter core system configurations that could facilitate further attacks or maintain persistent access to the compromised system. This vulnerability directly violates the principle of least privilege and can result in unauthorized system modifications that may go unnoticed for extended periods.
The vulnerability aligns with CWE-285, which addresses improper authorization issues in software systems, and corresponds to ATT&CK technique T1078 for valid accounts and T1059 for command and scripting interpreter. Organizations using affected WordPress plugins should immediately update to version 2.7.3 or later where the authorization checks have been properly implemented. Additionally, administrators should conduct thorough security audits of their WordPress installations, review user permissions, and implement monitoring for unauthorized configuration changes. Network segmentation and additional authentication controls such as two-factor authentication can provide additional layers of protection against exploitation of this type of vulnerability. Regular security updates and patch management processes should be enforced to prevent similar issues from arising in other plugins or core WordPress components.