CVE-2021-25003 in WPCargo Track & Trace Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 03/14/2022
The WPCargo Track & Trace WordPress plugin before 6.9.0 contains a file which could allow unauthenticated attackers to write a PHP file anywhere on the web server, leading to RCE
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/16/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2021-25003 affects the WPCargo Track & Trace WordPress plugin, specifically versions prior to 6.9.0, presenting a critical security risk that allows unauthenticated attackers to achieve remote code execution through arbitrary file writing capabilities. This flaw stems from inadequate input validation and insufficient access controls within the plugin's file handling mechanisms, creating a pathway for malicious actors to inject malicious PHP code into the web server filesystem. The vulnerability directly impacts WordPress environments where this plugin is installed, potentially compromising entire websites and underlying server infrastructure.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves a flaw in the plugin's upload or file processing functionality that fails to properly validate file names, paths, or content before writing files to the server. Attackers can exploit this by crafting malicious requests that bypass authentication requirements and leverage the plugin's legitimate file handling capabilities to write PHP files to arbitrary locations on the web server. This mechanism operates without requiring any user credentials or privileged access, making it particularly dangerous as it can be exploited by anyone with access to the affected WordPress installation. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-22, which describes improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, and CWE-434, which covers insecure file upload vulnerabilities, both of which are commonly exploited in web application attacks.
The operational impact of CVE-2021-25003 extends beyond simple unauthorized file creation, as it provides attackers with a persistent foothold for executing arbitrary commands on the compromised server. Once successful, attackers can establish backdoors, exfiltrate sensitive data, modify website content, or use the compromised server as a launchpad for further attacks against other systems within the network. This vulnerability enables attackers to potentially gain complete control over the affected WordPress installation, including access to databases, user accounts, and other plugins or themes that may be installed. The risk is compounded by the fact that many WordPress installations lack proper monitoring or intrusion detection mechanisms to detect such unauthorized file modifications, making the exploitation difficult to detect until significant damage has occurred.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2021-25003 primarily focus on immediate plugin updates to version 6.9.0 or later, which contain patches addressing the file writing vulnerability. System administrators should also implement additional security measures including restricting file upload capabilities, implementing proper input validation, and monitoring for unauthorized file modifications within WordPress directories. Network-level protections such as web application firewalls can help detect and block exploitation attempts, while regular security audits should verify that no malicious files have been introduced into the system. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under T1190, which describes exploits for execution through web shell deployment, and T1059, which covers command and scripting interpreters, highlighting the multi-stage nature of attacks that can exploit this flaw. Organizations should also consider implementing principle of least privilege access controls and regular security assessments to prevent similar vulnerabilities from being exploited in other components of their WordPress installations.