CVE-2015-1000013 in csv2wpec-coupon Plugin
Summary
by MITRE
Remote file upload vulnerability in wordpress plugin csv2wpec-coupon v1.1
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/23/2019
The remote file upload vulnerability in the csv2wpec-coupon WordPress plugin version 1.1 represents a critical security flaw that allows unauthenticated attackers to upload arbitrary files to the target system. This vulnerability specifically affects the plugin's handling of CSV file uploads, which are typically used for coupon management within the WordPress e-commerce environment. The flaw stems from insufficient input validation and sanitization mechanisms that fail to properly verify the file types being uploaded, creating an avenue for malicious file execution. Such vulnerabilities are particularly dangerous in web applications where user-supplied data is processed without proper security controls, as they can lead to complete system compromise.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability lies in the plugin's failure to enforce strict file type validation during the upload process. When users attempt to upload CSV files for coupon data processing, the plugin does not adequately verify that the uploaded file conforms to expected formats or contains malicious payloads. This weakness enables attackers to bypass normal upload restrictions by exploiting the lack of proper file extension checking, MIME type validation, or content inspection. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-434 which specifically addresses insecure file upload mechanisms, where applications accept files from untrusted sources without proper validation, potentially allowing attackers to upload malicious executables or scripts. The attack vector operates through standard HTTP POST requests to the plugin's upload endpoint, where the malicious file is processed and stored on the web server.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized file uploads, as it provides attackers with the capability to execute arbitrary code on the compromised WordPress installation. Once a malicious file is successfully uploaded, it can be executed by the web server, potentially leading to complete system compromise, data theft, or the installation of backdoors. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to gain persistent access to the target environment, escalate privileges, and use the compromised system as a launchpad for further attacks within the network. The vulnerability also poses significant risk to e-commerce operations, as compromised coupon systems can be exploited to manipulate pricing, distribute malware, or conduct fraudulent transactions. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to T1190 - Exploit Public-Facing Application, where adversaries target publicly accessible web applications to gain initial access and establish footholds within target environments.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate remediation through plugin updates and implementation of multiple defensive layers. The primary solution involves upgrading to a patched version of the csv2wpec-coupon plugin that properly validates file uploads and implements secure file handling mechanisms. Organizations should also implement strict file type restrictions, enforce proper MIME type checking, and sanitize all uploaded content through robust validation processes. Additional security measures include implementing web application firewalls to monitor and filter suspicious upload attempts, restricting file upload permissions on the web server, and conducting regular security audits of installed plugins. Network segmentation and monitoring solutions should be deployed to detect anomalous upload activities and prevent exploitation attempts. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of maintaining up-to-date security practices and conducting regular penetration testing to identify similar weaknesses in WordPress installations and prevent successful exploitation attempts.