CVE-2015-4617 in Easy2map-photos Plugin
Summary
by MITRE
Vulnerability in Easy2map-photos WordPress Plugin v1.09 MapPinImageUpload.php and MapPinIconSave.php allows path traversal when specifying file names creating files outside of the upload directory.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/10/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2015-4617 resides within the Easy2map-photos WordPress plugin version 1.09, specifically affecting the MapPinImageUpload.php and MapPinIconSave.php components. This issue represents a classic path traversal vulnerability that fundamentally compromises the intended security boundaries of the plugin's file handling mechanisms. The flaw occurs when the plugin processes user-supplied file names without proper validation or sanitization, allowing malicious actors to manipulate the file system operations and write files to arbitrary locations on the server.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation within the file upload functionality of the WordPress plugin. When users specify file names for map pin images or icons, the plugin fails to properly sanitize these inputs before using them in file system operations. This allows attackers to include directory traversal sequences such as ../ or ..\ in the file names, effectively bypassing the intended upload directory restrictions. The vulnerability specifically affects the MapPinImageUpload.php and MapPinIconSave.php scripts which handle the core file operations for map pin assets, making them primary attack vectors for exploitation.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized file creation, as it provides attackers with the ability to potentially place malicious files anywhere within the web server's file system. This could enable attackers to upload web shells, backdoor scripts, or other malicious payloads that could compromise the entire WordPress installation and potentially the underlying server infrastructure. The vulnerability creates a persistent threat vector that allows attackers to maintain long-term access to the compromised system, as they can place files outside the normal plugin directories and potentially bypass standard security monitoring mechanisms.
This vulnerability aligns with CWE-22 Path Traversal and falls under the broader category of insecure file handling practices that are frequently exploited in web application attacks. The attack pattern follows typical exploitation techniques documented in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under the T1059.007 command and scripting interpreter category, where adversaries leverage file system manipulation to establish persistent access. The vulnerability also relates to T1505.003 server-side injection, as attackers can manipulate server-side file operations through crafted input. Organizations should prioritize immediate patching of affected WordPress installations, as the vulnerability provides direct file system manipulation capabilities that can lead to complete system compromise. The recommended mitigation includes updating to the patched version of the Easy2map-photos plugin, implementing proper input validation, and conducting thorough security audits of all WordPress plugins to identify similar path traversal vulnerabilities.