CVE-2018-25019 in LearnDash LMS Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 11/01/2021
The LearnDash LMS WordPress plugin before 2.5.4 does not have any authorisation and validation of the file to be uploaded in the learndash_assignment_process_init() function, which could allow unauthenticated users to upload arbitrary files to the web server
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/04/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-25019 affects the LearnDash Learning Management System WordPress plugin version 2.5.3 and earlier, representing a critical security flaw that undermines the plugin's file upload functionality. This issue stems from the absence of proper authorization and validation mechanisms within the learndash_assignment_process_init() function, creating an exploitable condition that allows unauthenticated attackers to bypass security controls and upload malicious files to the target web server. The flaw essentially removes all access controls that should normally restrict file uploads to authorized users only, enabling anyone with access to the plugin's upload endpoint to potentially compromise the entire WordPress installation.
The technical nature of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-434, which describes "Unrestricted Upload of File with Dangerous Type," and represents a classic case of insufficient input validation and access control enforcement. The lack of proper authorization checks means that the plugin fails to verify whether the requesting user possesses appropriate privileges to upload files, while the absence of file type validation creates opportunities for attackers to upload executable scripts, web shells, or other malicious content. This vulnerability operates at the application layer and directly impacts the integrity of the WordPress environment by allowing arbitrary code execution through file upload mechanisms.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability presents a severe risk to WordPress sites utilizing the LearnDash plugin, as it enables remote code execution without requiring authentication credentials. Attackers can leverage this flaw to upload web shells, malware, or other malicious payloads that can be used to establish persistent access, escalate privileges, or launch further attacks against the compromised system. The impact extends beyond immediate compromise as attackers can use the uploaded files to maintain access, exfiltrate data, or use the compromised server as a launchpad for attacking other systems within the network. This vulnerability particularly affects educational institutions and organizations that rely on LearnDash for online learning management, as these systems often contain sensitive user data and educational content.
The mitigation strategy for this vulnerability requires immediate patching of the LearnDash plugin to version 2.5.4 or later, which includes proper authorization checks and file validation mechanisms. Organizations should also implement additional security controls such as restricting file upload directories, implementing web application firewalls, and conducting regular security assessments of their WordPress installations. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under T1190 - Exploit Public-Facing Application, as it represents an attack surface that can be exploited through publicly accessible web interfaces. Security teams should also consider implementing network segmentation, monitoring for suspicious file upload activities, and establishing incident response procedures specifically tailored to handle potential exploitation of file upload vulnerabilities. Regular security audits and vulnerability scanning should be conducted to identify similar authorization flaws in other plugins and themes that may present similar risks to the WordPress ecosystem.