CVE-2016-10914 in add-from-server Plugin
Summary
by MITRE
The add-from-server plugin before 3.3.2 for WordPress has CSRF for importing a large file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/27/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2016-10914 affects the add-from-server plugin for WordPress, specifically versions prior to 3.3.2. This issue represents a cross-site request forgery vulnerability that enables unauthorized file imports from the server into WordPress. The plugin's functionality allows administrators to import files directly from the server filesystem, which is a convenient feature for content management but becomes dangerous when proper security controls are absent. The vulnerability arises from the lack of proper CSRF protection mechanisms within the plugin's import functionality, making it susceptible to exploitation by malicious actors who can manipulate authenticated users into performing unintended file import operations.
The technical flaw stems from the plugin's failure to implement adequate CSRF token validation during the file import process. When an administrator visits a malicious website or clicks on a crafted link while authenticated to their WordPress site, the attacker can leverage the existing session to initiate file import operations without the user's knowledge or consent. This vulnerability specifically impacts the import of large files, which can be particularly dangerous as it may allow attackers to upload malicious scripts, backdoors, or other harmful content that could compromise the entire WordPress installation. The absence of anti-CSRF tokens means that legitimate requests cannot be distinguished from malicious ones, effectively bypassing the authentication and authorization mechanisms that should protect the import functionality.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is significant as it can lead to complete compromise of the affected WordPress site. Attackers can exploit this weakness to upload malicious files that may contain web shells, malware, or other harmful code that can be executed on the server. The ability to import large files increases the potential damage as these files can contain complex payloads that are difficult to detect through standard security scanning. This vulnerability can result in data breaches, site defacement, unauthorized access to sensitive information, and potential use as a foothold for further attacks within the network. The attack vector is particularly concerning because it requires minimal user interaction beyond simply visiting a malicious website, making it an effective method for widespread exploitation.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2016-10914 should prioritize immediate plugin updates to version 3.3.2 or later, which contains the necessary CSRF protection measures. Organizations should also implement additional security controls such as network segmentation, web application firewalls, and regular security audits to detect and prevent exploitation attempts. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-352, which specifically addresses Cross-Site Request Forgery, and can be mapped to ATT&CK technique T1190 for exploit public-facing application. Administrators should also consider implementing strict access controls, monitoring for unusual file import activities, and maintaining up-to-date security patches across all WordPress plugins and themes to prevent similar vulnerabilities from being exploited. Regular security assessments and penetration testing can help identify other potential CSRF vulnerabilities within the WordPress ecosystem that may not have been explicitly documented.