CVE-2015-9471 in dzs-zoomsounds Plugin
Summary
by MITRE
The dzs-zoomsounds plugin through 2.0 for WordPress has admin/upload.php arbitrary file upload.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/07/2024
The dzs-zoomsounds plugin for WordPress contains a critical vulnerability in its admin/upload.php component that allows unauthenticated attackers to upload arbitrary files to the target system. This vulnerability affects versions through 2.0 and represents a severe security flaw that can lead to complete system compromise. The issue stems from insufficient input validation and improper file type checking within the upload functionality, creating an opportunity for malicious actors to execute arbitrary code on the affected WordPress installation. The vulnerability exists due to inadequate sanitization of user-supplied file names and content, allowing attackers to bypass security restrictions and upload potentially malicious files.
This arbitrary file upload vulnerability enables attackers to gain remote code execution capabilities on the target system, which aligns with CWE-434 Unrestricted Upload of File with Dangerous Type. The flaw allows adversaries to upload web shells, malware, or other malicious payloads that can be executed within the context of the web server. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to establish persistent access, escalate privileges, and potentially move laterally within the network infrastructure. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it does not require authentication, making it accessible to anyone who can reach the affected WordPress installation. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this as a technique involving Initial Access through Web Shell or Command Execution, with potential for Privilege Escalation and Persistence.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it can result in complete system compromise and data theft. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability can gain administrative control over the WordPress site, potentially leading to defacement, data exfiltration, or use of the compromised system as a launchpad for further attacks. The vulnerability affects the integrity and availability of the WordPress installation, as attackers can modify or delete content, inject malicious code, or disrupt normal operations. Organizations running affected versions of the dzs-zoomsounds plugin face significant risk of unauthorized access and potential regulatory compliance violations, especially in environments where sensitive data is processed or stored.
Mitigation strategies should focus on immediate patching of the affected plugin to version 2.1 or later, which addresses the arbitrary file upload vulnerability. System administrators should also implement additional security measures including restricting file upload directories, implementing proper file type validation, and configuring web server restrictions to prevent execution of uploaded files. Network-level protections such as web application firewalls can provide additional defense-in-depth measures to detect and block malicious file upload attempts. Regular security audits and vulnerability assessments should be conducted to identify and remediate similar issues in other plugins and themes. Organizations should also implement monitoring solutions to detect unusual file upload activities and ensure that all WordPress installations are kept up to date with the latest security patches. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper input validation and secure coding practices, particularly when handling user-supplied data in web applications.