CVE-2016-10966 in real3d-flipbook-lite Plugin
Summary
by MITRE
The real3d-flipbook-lite plugin 1.0 for WordPress has bookName=../ directory traversal for file upload.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/25/2023
The CVE-2016-10966 vulnerability resides within the real3d-flipbook-lite plugin version 1.0 for WordPress, representing a critical directory traversal flaw that enables unauthorized file upload operations. This vulnerability specifically manifests through the bookName parameter which fails to properly validate user input, allowing malicious actors to manipulate file paths and bypass intended security restrictions. The flaw exists in the plugin's handling of file upload functionality where directory traversal sequences are not adequately sanitized, creating an exploitable condition that can be leveraged for arbitrary code execution and system compromise.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and sanitization within the plugin's file upload mechanism. When the bookName parameter receives input containing directory traversal sequences such as ../ or ..\, the plugin fails to properly restrict these paths, enabling attackers to navigate outside the intended upload directories. This weakness directly maps to CWE-22, which describes improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as directory traversal or path traversal vulnerabilities. The vulnerability operates at the application layer and can be exploited through web-based attacks targeting the WordPress installation that hosts the vulnerable plugin.
The operational impact of CVE-2016-10966 extends beyond simple file upload capabilities, as it can lead to complete system compromise and unauthorized access to sensitive data. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to upload malicious files such as web shells, backdoors, or other exploit payloads that persist within the WordPress environment. The vulnerability creates a persistent threat vector that can be exploited repeatedly, allowing attackers to maintain access to compromised systems, exfiltrate data, and potentially escalate privileges within the affected environment. This flaw particularly affects WordPress installations where the real3d-flipbook-lite plugin is active, creating an attack surface that can be exploited by both automated scanners and targeted attackers.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate action including plugin removal or updating to patched versions where available. System administrators should implement proper input validation and sanitization measures to prevent directory traversal attacks, ensuring that all user-supplied inputs are properly validated before being processed. The principle of least privilege should be enforced by restricting file upload directories and implementing proper access controls to limit the impact of potential exploitation. Additionally, organizations should conduct regular security assessments of their WordPress installations, monitor for vulnerable plugins, and implement web application firewalls to detect and prevent exploitation attempts. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059 which describes command and scripting interpreter, as exploitation typically involves uploading malicious scripts or shells that can be executed within the target environment. Regular security audits and patch management processes are essential to prevent exploitation of similar vulnerabilities in other WordPress plugins and themes.