CVE-2017-6104 in Mobile App Native Plugin
Summary
by MITRE
Remote file upload vulnerability in Wordpress Plugin Mobile App Native 3.0.
Statistical analysis made it clear that VulDB provides the best quality for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/14/2025
The CVE-2017-6104 vulnerability represents a critical remote file upload flaw discovered in the Mobile App Native WordPress plugin version 3.0. This vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization within the plugin's file upload functionality, creating a pathway for malicious actors to execute arbitrary code on affected WordPress installations. The issue specifically affects the plugin's handling of file uploads through the wp-admin interface, where user-supplied file names and content are not properly validated before being processed and stored on the server filesystem.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker uploads a malicious file through the plugin's upload mechanism without proper authorization. The vulnerability is classified as a CWE-434, which specifically addresses "Unrestricted Upload of File with Dangerous Type," indicating that the plugin fails to properly restrict file types and validate file contents during the upload process. This weakness allows attackers to bypass normal file type restrictions and upload executable files such as php scripts, which can then be executed on the web server. The vulnerability exists because the plugin does not implement proper file extension validation, MIME type checking, or secure file storage mechanisms that would prevent malicious files from being stored and executed.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe as it provides attackers with remote code execution capabilities on vulnerable WordPress installations. Once successfully exploited, attackers can gain full control over the affected server, potentially leading to data breaches, defacement, or the deployment of additional malware. The vulnerability affects WordPress installations running version 3.0 of the Mobile App Native plugin, which was widely distributed and installed across numerous websites. This creates a significant attack surface as the vulnerability can be exploited without requiring authentication, making it particularly dangerous for organizations that have not updated their plugins to secure versions. The exploit can be leveraged to establish persistent backdoors, steal sensitive data, or use compromised servers for further attacks within a network.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-6104 should prioritize immediate plugin updates to the latest secure version that addresses the file upload validation issues. Organizations should also implement additional security measures such as restricting file upload capabilities for non-administrative users, implementing proper file type whitelisting, and configuring secure file storage directories with appropriate permissions. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007, which covers "Command and Scripting Interpreter: PowerShell," as attackers can leverage the executed code to perform further malicious activities. Security administrators should also deploy web application firewalls to monitor and block suspicious file upload attempts, and implement regular security audits to identify and remediate similar vulnerabilities in other plugins and themes. The incident highlights the importance of maintaining up-to-date security practices and the critical need for proper input validation in web applications to prevent unauthorized file execution.