CVE-2019-15839 in sina-extension-for-elementor Plugin
Summary
by MITRE
The sina-extension-for-elementor plugin before 2.2.1 for WordPress has local file inclusion.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/24/2025
The CVE-2019-15839 vulnerability affects the sina-extension-for-elementor plugin version 2.2.0 and earlier in the WordPress ecosystem, representing a critical local file inclusion flaw that exposes websites to significant security risks. This vulnerability resides within a popular WordPress plugin designed to extend the functionality of the Elementor page builder, making it particularly dangerous as it targets widely used website building tools. The flaw allows attackers to manipulate file inclusion mechanisms within the plugin's code, potentially enabling unauthorized access to sensitive server files and data.
The technical implementation of this local file inclusion vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization within the plugin's file handling routines. Attackers can exploit this weakness by crafting malicious requests that manipulate file path parameters, causing the application to include and execute arbitrary local files on the server. This type of vulnerability falls under the Common Weakness Enumeration category CWE-22, which specifically addresses improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal attacks. The vulnerability's exploitation typically involves manipulating parameters such as file names or paths to bypass normal access controls and gain access to server resources that should remain protected.
The operational impact of CVE-2019-15839 extends beyond simple data theft, as it can enable attackers to execute arbitrary code on affected systems, potentially leading to complete compromise of the WordPress installation. This vulnerability can result in unauthorized access to database credentials, user information, and other sensitive data stored on the server. The attack surface is particularly concerning given that the affected plugin is commonly installed on business websites, blogs, and online stores that may contain valuable customer information, financial data, and proprietary business information. Additionally, the vulnerability can be leveraged to establish persistent access points through the installation of backdoors or web shells, allowing attackers to maintain control over compromised systems for extended periods.
Organizations affected by this vulnerability should prioritize immediate remediation by upgrading to version 2.2.1 or later of the sina-extension-for-elementor plugin, which includes proper input validation and sanitization measures to prevent malicious file inclusion attempts. Security professionals should also implement network monitoring to detect potential exploitation attempts and conduct thorough security audits of all installed WordPress plugins to identify similar vulnerabilities. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this type of vulnerability under T1059.007 for Command and Scripting Interpreter: PowerShell and T1068 for Exploitation for Privilege Escalation, highlighting the potential for attackers to leverage such flaws to execute malicious commands and escalate their privileges within the compromised environment. System administrators should also consider implementing web application firewalls and input validation rules to provide additional layers of protection against similar attacks targeting WordPress installations.