CVE-2019-25224 in WP Database Backup Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 07/25/2025
The WP Database Backup plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to OS Command Injection in versions before 5.2 via the mysqldump function. This vulnerability allows unauthenticated attackers to execute arbitrary commands on the host operating system.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/12/2025
The WP Database Backup plugin for WordPress presents a critical operating system command injection vulnerability identified as CVE-2019-25224 affecting versions prior to 5.2. This flaw resides within the mysqldump function implementation and represents a severe security weakness that can be exploited by unauthenticated attackers without requiring any valid credentials or privileges. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and sanitization mechanisms within the plugin's database backup functionality, creating an attack surface where malicious commands can be injected and executed directly on the underlying operating system hosting the WordPress installation.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker can manipulate the mysqldump function parameters through improperly validated user inputs. This command injection flaw allows adversaries to execute arbitrary operating system commands with the privileges of the web server process, typically running under the same user context as the WordPress application. The attack vector leverages the plugin's backup functionality where database export operations are performed, enabling attackers to gain remote code execution capabilities on the target system. This vulnerability directly maps to CWE-77 which categorizes command injection flaws, and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.001 for command and scripting interpreter.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with persistent access to the compromised system. Once exploited, adversaries can establish backdoors, escalate privileges, exfiltrate sensitive data, or deploy additional malware within the compromised environment. The unauthenticated nature of this vulnerability means that any user with access to the WordPress site can potentially exploit this flaw, making it particularly dangerous for publicly accessible web applications. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to perform reconnaissance activities, modify database contents, or even compromise the entire hosting infrastructure. The implications include potential data breaches, service disruption, and unauthorized access to sensitive information stored within the WordPress environment.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2019-25224 should prioritize immediate plugin updates to version 5.2 or later where the command injection vulnerability has been addressed. System administrators should implement network-level restrictions to limit access to WordPress administrative interfaces and backup functions. Input validation and sanitization measures should be enhanced at multiple layers including web application firewalls and server-side processing. Regular security audits and vulnerability assessments should be conducted to identify similar command injection vulnerabilities in other plugins or themes. Additionally, implementing principle of least privilege for web server processes and maintaining regular backups of critical systems can help minimize the impact of successful exploitation attempts. Organizations should also consider implementing monitoring solutions to detect unusual command execution patterns that may indicate exploitation attempts against similar vulnerabilities.