CVE-2020-24147 in WP Smart Import Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 07/07/2021
Server-side request forgery (SSR) vulnerability in the WP Smart Import (wp-smart-import) plugin 1.0.0 for WordPress via the file field.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/10/2021
The CVE-2020-24147 vulnerability represents a critical server-side request forgery flaw within the WP Smart Import plugin version 1.0.0 for WordPress platforms. This vulnerability resides in the plugin's handling of file field inputs, creating a pathway for malicious actors to manipulate server requests through crafted input data. The vulnerability specifically affects the server-side processing logic that validates and handles file imports, allowing unauthorized access to internal resources that should remain protected from external manipulation.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when the plugin processes file field inputs without proper validation of remote URLs or file paths. An attacker can construct malicious requests that cause the vulnerable WordPress server to make unintended HTTP requests to internal services or external malicious endpoints. This flaw operates at the intersection of improper input validation and insecure direct object references, creating a condition where the server acts as an unwitting proxy for malicious activities. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-918 as a server-side request forgery, which represents a significant risk in web application security contexts.
The operational impact of CVE-2020-24147 extends beyond simple data exfiltration, potentially enabling attackers to access internal network resources, perform reconnaissance on internal services, or even execute further attacks through the compromised WordPress instance. The vulnerability can be exploited to access sensitive internal systems that are typically protected by network segmentation, making it particularly dangerous in enterprise environments. Additionally, successful exploitation could lead to privilege escalation opportunities, as attackers might gain access to administrative functions or sensitive data stored within the WordPress environment.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should include immediate plugin updates to versions that address the SSRF flaw, implementation of proper input validation for all file field inputs, and network-level restrictions that prevent the WordPress server from accessing internal resources. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls to detect and block suspicious request patterns, along with monitoring for unusual outbound network connections from the WordPress server. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under T1071.004 for application layer protocol: DNS and T1190 for exploit public-facing application, emphasizing the need for comprehensive network security controls. Security teams should also implement proper access controls and privilege management to limit the potential damage from successful exploitation, while maintaining regular security assessments to identify similar vulnerabilities in other plugins and components of the WordPress ecosystem.