CVE-2015-4703 in Rename Plugin
Summary
by MITRE
Absolute path traversal vulnerability in mysqldump_download.php in the WordPress Rename plugin 1.0 for WordPress allows remote attackers to read arbitrary files via a full pathname in the dumpfname parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/02/2022
The CVE-2015-4703 vulnerability represents a critical path traversal flaw within the WordPress Rename plugin version 1.0, specifically affecting the mysqldump_download.php component. This vulnerability arises from insufficient input validation and sanitization mechanisms that fail to properly restrict user-supplied file paths. The issue manifests when the plugin processes the dumpfname parameter without adequate restrictions on the absolute path components, allowing malicious actors to manipulate the file access behavior. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it operates at the file system level, enabling attackers to bypass normal access controls and potentially extract sensitive data from the server's file system.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through a straightforward yet effective method of manipulating the dumpfname parameter to include absolute file paths. Attackers can construct malicious requests that target system files such as configuration files, database credentials, or other sensitive resources that are typically not accessible through normal web interface operations. The flaw stems from the plugin's failure to properly validate or sanitize user input before using it in file system operations, creating an environment where arbitrary file access becomes possible. This type of vulnerability is classified under CWE-22, which specifically addresses improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal or directory traversal attacks.
The operational impact of CVE-2015-4703 extends beyond simple data theft, potentially enabling attackers to gain deeper system access and execute further malicious activities. Remote attackers can leverage this vulnerability to access critical system files including wp-config.php, which contains database credentials and other sensitive configuration data. The vulnerability allows for the retrieval of arbitrary files, meaning that attackers could potentially access not only WordPress core files but also server configuration files, user data, or other system resources. This represents a significant risk to WordPress installations that have not updated to patched versions of the Rename plugin, as the vulnerability can be exploited without authentication. The attack vector is particularly concerning because it operates over standard HTTP/HTTPS protocols, making it easy to exploit through web-based attack tools.
The remediation strategy for CVE-2015-4703 requires immediate patching of the WordPress Rename plugin to version 1.1 or later, which contains the necessary input validation fixes. System administrators should implement proper input sanitization measures that validate and restrict file path inputs to prevent absolute path manipulation. The fix typically involves implementing strict validation of the dumpfname parameter to ensure it only accepts relative paths within the intended directory structure. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls that can detect and block suspicious path traversal patterns in HTTP requests. Additionally, regular security audits of installed WordPress plugins should be conducted to identify and remediate similar vulnerabilities. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under T1078 Valid Accounts and T1566 Phishing with Malicious Attachments, as attackers often use such vulnerabilities to gain access to sensitive information that can be used for further compromise. Proper security practices include maintaining updated plugin versions, implementing least privilege access controls, and conducting regular vulnerability assessments to prevent exploitation of known vulnerabilities like CVE-2015-4703.