CVE-2019-25296 in WP Cost Estimation Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 01/08/2026
The WP Cost Estimation plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to arbitrary file uploads and deletion due to missing file type validation in the lfb_upload_form and lfb_removeFile AJAX actions in versions up to, and including, 9.642. This makes it possible for unauthenticated attackers to upload arbitrary files on the affected sites server which may make remote code execution possible. Additionally, the attacker can also delete files on the server such as database configuration files, subsequently uploading their own database files.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/08/2026
The WP Cost Estimation plugin for WordPress presents a critical security vulnerability identified as CVE-2019-25296, affecting versions up to and including 9.642. This vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation mechanisms within the plugin's AJAX handling functions, specifically the lfb_upload_form and lfb_removeFile actions. The flaw represents a severe misconfiguration that allows unauthenticated attackers to exploit the plugin's file handling capabilities without requiring any authentication credentials or privileged access. The vulnerability manifests through the absence of proper file type validation during file upload operations, creating an exploitable entry point that bypasses standard WordPress security controls and plugin access restrictions.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs through the plugin's AJAX interface where the lfb_upload_form action accepts file uploads without verifying the file extensions, MIME types, or content signatures. Attackers can leverage this weakness to upload malicious files such as PHP web shells, script files, or other executable content that can be executed within the web server context. The vulnerability's impact extends beyond simple file uploads to include arbitrary file deletion capabilities through the lfb_removeFile action, which allows attackers to remove critical system files including database configuration files, potentially leading to complete system compromise. This dual functionality creates a complete attack vector where attackers can first delete essential system components and then upload replacement files that maintain persistent access or execute malicious code.
The operational consequences of this vulnerability are particularly severe as it enables remote code execution capabilities without authentication requirements, making it an attractive target for automated exploitation campaigns. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-434, which describes insecure file upload vulnerabilities where applications accept files without proper validation, and represents a direct violation of secure coding practices for web application file handling. From an adversarial perspective, this vulnerability maps to ATT&CK technique T1190, which involves exploiting vulnerabilities in web applications to gain initial access, and T1059, which covers executing malicious code through command and scripting interpreters. The attack surface is further expanded by the ability to delete critical files, which can lead to service disruption, data loss, or complete system compromise depending on which files are targeted.
Organizations running vulnerable versions of the WP Cost Estimation plugin face significant risk of unauthorized access, data breaches, and system compromise. The vulnerability's exploitation does not require any special privileges or authentication, making it particularly dangerous for WordPress installations that are publicly accessible. Recommended mitigation strategies include immediate plugin updates to versions that address the file validation issues, implementation of web application firewalls to monitor and block suspicious file upload patterns, and comprehensive security audits of affected installations. Additionally, administrators should consider implementing file type restrictions at the web server level, monitoring for unusual file upload activities, and conducting regular vulnerability assessments to identify similar issues in other plugins or themes. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of input validation and access control mechanisms in web applications, particularly in content management systems where plugins frequently extend functionality while potentially introducing security risks.