CVE-2015-7669 in Easy2Map Plugin
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple directory traversal vulnerabilities in (1) includes/MapImportCSV2.php and (2) includes/MapImportCSV.php in the Easy2Map plugin before 1.3.0 for WordPress allow remote attackers to include and execute arbitrary files via the csvfile parameter related to "upload file functionality."
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/28/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2015-7669 represents a critical directory traversal flaw affecting the Easy2Map WordPress plugin version 1.2.9 and earlier. This vulnerability exists within two specific files: includes/MapImportCSV2.php and includes/MapImportCSV.php which handle the plugin's CSV import functionality. The flaw stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization of the csvfile parameter, which is used during file upload operations. Attackers can exploit this weakness to manipulate file paths and gain unauthorized access to arbitrary files on the target system. The vulnerability directly maps to CWE-22, which describes improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as directory traversal or path traversal attacks. These attacks allow adversaries to access files outside the intended directory structure, potentially leading to sensitive data exposure, remote code execution, or system compromise.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through manipulation of the csvfile parameter in the plugin's upload functionality. When a malicious user submits a specially crafted csvfile value containing directory traversal sequences such as ../ or ..\, the application fails to properly validate or sanitize this input before processing. The vulnerable code does not adequately restrict the file paths that can be accessed, allowing attackers to traverse the file system and potentially include or execute arbitrary files. This weakness enables attackers to bypass normal access controls and gain unauthorized access to files that should remain protected. The attack vector specifically targets the plugin's file handling mechanisms, where user-supplied data is directly incorporated into file system operations without proper validation. This type of vulnerability is particularly dangerous in web applications where file operations are performed with elevated privileges, as it can lead to complete system compromise.
The operational impact of CVE-2015-7669 extends beyond simple data exposure to potentially enable full system compromise. Remote attackers can leverage this vulnerability to execute arbitrary code on the target system, making it a severe threat to WordPress installations using the affected plugin. The vulnerability affects not only the plugin's functionality but also the broader WordPress environment, as successful exploitation can lead to unauthorized access to database files, configuration files, and other sensitive resources. The implications include potential data breaches, unauthorized modifications to website content, and establishment of persistent backdoors. From an attacker's perspective, this vulnerability provides a straightforward path to gaining unauthorized access to the target system, making it particularly attractive for automated exploitation. The attack can be executed remotely without requiring authentication, significantly increasing the risk to affected systems. Organizations running vulnerable versions of the Easy2Map plugin face substantial risk of compromise, as the vulnerability can be exploited by anyone with access to the WordPress site.
The recommended mitigation strategy for CVE-2015-7669 involves immediate upgrade to Easy2Map plugin version 1.3.0 or later, which contains the necessary patches to address the directory traversal vulnerability. System administrators should also implement proper input validation and sanitization measures to prevent similar issues in other applications. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of secure coding practices, particularly in file handling operations, where all user-supplied input should be validated and sanitized before being used in file system operations. Organizations should conduct thorough vulnerability assessments to identify other potentially vulnerable plugins or components within their WordPress installations. Additional protective measures include implementing web application firewalls, restricting file upload capabilities, and monitoring for suspicious file access patterns. The remediation process should also involve reviewing and updating security policies to ensure that all plugins and themes are regularly updated and maintained. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to T1059.007 for remote code execution and T1078 for valid accounts, as exploitation typically involves leveraging legitimate file upload functionality to execute malicious code. Regular security audits and automated scanning tools should be deployed to detect similar vulnerabilities in other WordPress plugins and the overall web application environment.