CVE-2018-20973 in companion-auto-update Plugin
Summary
by MITRE
The companion-auto-update plugin before 3.2.1 for WordPress has local file inclusion.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/26/2023
The CVE-2018-20973 vulnerability represents a critical local file inclusion flaw within the companion-auto-update plugin for WordPress systems. This vulnerability affects versions prior to 3.2.1 and exposes WordPress installations to potential exploitation through improper input validation mechanisms. The flaw exists in how the plugin handles file operations, creating opportunities for attackers to manipulate file inclusion processes and potentially access sensitive system resources.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from insufficient sanitization of user-supplied input parameters that are directly used in file path construction. When the companion-auto-update plugin processes update requests, it fails to properly validate or escape input data before incorporating it into file system operations. This creates a scenario where malicious actors can inject arbitrary file paths or names that bypass normal access controls. The vulnerability operates at the application layer and can be exploited through crafted HTTP requests that target the plugin's update functionality, potentially allowing unauthorized access to local files on the server.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple file access, as it can enable attackers to escalate privileges and gain deeper system control. Successful exploitation may allow adversaries to read sensitive configuration files, access database credentials, or even execute arbitrary code on the affected system. The vulnerability's severity is amplified by the fact that WordPress plugins often run with elevated privileges, potentially providing attackers with access to sensitive system resources. This flaw aligns with CWE-22, which describes improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, and represents a classic example of path traversal vulnerabilities that have been consistently documented in security frameworks.
Organizations affected by this vulnerability should immediately implement mitigations including updating to version 3.2.1 or later of the companion-auto-update plugin, which includes proper input validation and sanitization measures. Additional protective measures should include implementing web application firewalls to monitor for suspicious file access patterns, restricting file upload capabilities, and conducting comprehensive security audits of all installed WordPress plugins. Network segmentation and access control measures can help limit the potential impact if exploitation occurs. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under T1059 for command and scripting interpreter and T1078 for valid accounts, as exploitation often involves leveraging existing system access to execute malicious operations. Regular security monitoring and vulnerability scanning should be implemented to detect similar issues in other plugins or system components, as this type of flaw commonly appears in legacy software that fails to implement proper input validation mechanisms.