CVE-2015-9415 in bj-lazy-load Plugin
Summary
by MITRE
The bj-lazy-load plugin before 1.0 for WordPress has Remote File Inclusion.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/27/2023
The CVE-2015-9415 vulnerability represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw in the bj-lazy-load plugin version 1.0 and earlier for the WordPress content management system. This vulnerability exposes WordPress installations to unauthorized remote code execution attacks through improper input validation and sanitization mechanisms. The flaw allows malicious actors to inject and execute arbitrary files from remote locations, potentially compromising entire web servers and their associated data repositories. The vulnerability specifically affects the plugin's handling of user-supplied input parameters that are directly incorporated into file inclusion directives without adequate security controls.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the plugin's failure to properly validate and sanitize input parameters before using them in file inclusion operations. When the plugin processes user requests containing malicious file paths or URLs, it directly incorporates these inputs into system calls that load external files. This design flaw creates an exploitation vector where attackers can manipulate the plugin's behavior to load and execute malicious code from remote servers. The vulnerability operates at the application layer and can be exploited through various attack vectors including crafted URLs, form submissions, or API endpoints that interact with the vulnerable plugin functionality.
The operational impact of CVE-2015-9415 extends beyond simple remote code execution to encompass complete system compromise and data exfiltration capabilities. Successful exploitation allows attackers to upload backdoors, install malware, steal sensitive information, and establish persistent access to affected WordPress installations. The vulnerability affects not only individual websites but can also serve as a stepping stone for broader network attacks, particularly in environments where multiple WordPress sites share common infrastructure. Organizations running vulnerable versions of the bj-lazy-load plugin face significant risk of unauthorized access, data breaches, and potential regulatory compliance violations that could result in substantial financial and reputational damage.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2015-9415 require immediate action to address the vulnerability through plugin updates and security hardening measures. The primary remediation involves upgrading to version 1.0 or later of the bj-lazy-load plugin where the remote file inclusion flaw has been resolved. Additionally, administrators should implement proper input validation controls, restrict file inclusion operations to trusted sources only, and deploy web application firewalls to monitor and block suspicious requests. Security measures should include regular vulnerability assessments, patch management protocols, and monitoring for unauthorized modifications to plugin files. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-94, which addresses improper control of generation of code, and maps to ATT&CK technique T1190 for exploiting vulnerabilities in web applications. Organizations should also consider implementing network segmentation and access controls to limit the potential impact of successful exploitation attempts.