CVE-2014-9473 in CformsII
Summary
by MITRE
Unrestricted file upload vulnerability in lib_nonajax.php in the CformsII plugin 14.7 and earlier for WordPress allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code by uploading a file with an executable extension via the cf_uploadfile2[] parameter, then accessing the file via a direct request to the file in the default upload directory.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/08/2025
The CVE-2014-9473 vulnerability represents a critical unrestricted file upload flaw in the CformsII WordPress plugin version 14.7 and earlier, specifically within the lib_nonajax.php component. This vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization mechanisms that fail to properly restrict file type uploads. The flaw is particularly dangerous because it allows remote attackers to bypass security controls and upload malicious files directly to the target system. The vulnerability manifests through the cf_uploadfile2[] parameter, which is processed without proper file extension validation or content inspection, creating an attack surface where executable files can be silently uploaded to the server's default upload directory.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability follows a predictable pattern where attackers leverage the plugin's file upload functionality to place malicious payloads on the web server. Once uploaded, these files can be executed directly through HTTP requests targeting the specific file location within the default WordPress upload directory. This creates a persistent threat vector that can be leveraged for various malicious activities including web shell deployment, backdoor installation, and full system compromise. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-434 as "Unrestricted Upload of File with Dangerous Type," which specifically addresses the risk of allowing file uploads that can execute code on the target system.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability presents a severe risk to WordPress installations using the affected CformsII plugin version. The impact extends beyond simple data theft to include complete system compromise, as attackers can execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the web server process. The attack requires minimal sophistication and can be automated, making it particularly dangerous in environments where multiple WordPress sites are deployed. The vulnerability affects not only the immediate web application but also potentially the entire hosting environment, as compromised web servers can serve as launch points for further attacks against internal networks or other systems.
The threat landscape surrounding CVE-2014-9473 aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190 "Exploit Public-Facing Application" and T1059.007 "Command and Scripting Interpreter: PowerShell" where attackers can leverage the uploaded files to establish persistent access. Organizations should immediately implement mitigations including plugin version updates, input validation enforcement, and upload directory restrictions. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper file upload validation and the principle of least privilege in web application security. Security teams must also consider implementing web application firewalls and content inspection mechanisms to detect and prevent such attacks, while maintaining regular vulnerability assessments to identify similar flaws in other plugins and application components.