CVE-2022-1574 in HTML2WP Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 06/27/2022
The HTML2WP WordPress plugin through 1.0.0 does not have authorisation and CSRF checks when importing files, and does not validate them, as a result, unauthenticated attackers can upload arbitrary files (such as PHP) on the remote server
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/15/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2022-1574 affects the HTML2WP WordPress plugin version 1.0.0 and earlier, presenting a critical security flaw that undermines the integrity of WordPress installations. This vulnerability stems from the absence of proper authorization and cross-site request forgery protection mechanisms within the plugin's file import functionality. The flaw allows unauthenticated attackers to exploit the plugin's import feature and upload arbitrary files to the target server, including potentially malicious PHP scripts that could compromise the entire WordPress environment.
The technical nature of this vulnerability resides in the plugin's failure to implement essential security controls during file upload operations. Specifically, the HTML2WP plugin lacks validation of uploaded files and does not enforce proper authentication checks before processing import requests. This absence of input validation and access control creates an exploitable condition where any remote user can bypass authentication requirements and execute arbitrary file uploads. The vulnerability directly maps to CWE-434, which describes insecure file upload vulnerabilities where applications accept files from untrusted sources without proper validation and sanitization.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability poses severe risks to WordPress installations that utilize the affected plugin. Attackers can leverage this weakness to upload malicious PHP files that may serve as backdoors, web shells, or other malicious payloads. Once uploaded, these files can be executed on the server, potentially leading to full system compromise, data exfiltration, or the establishment of persistent access points. The impact extends beyond immediate exploitation as attackers can use the uploaded files to escalate privileges, install additional malware, or conduct further reconnaissance activities within the compromised environment.
The security implications of CVE-2022-1574 align with several tactics described in the MITRE ATT&CK framework, particularly those related to initial access and execution phases. Attackers can use this vulnerability to establish a foothold in WordPress environments through the technique of "Exploitation for Client Execution" or "Server Software Component Vulnerability." The vulnerability also enables "Command and Control" activities through the potential upload of web shells that can facilitate ongoing communication with attacker-controlled infrastructure.
Organizations should immediately implement mitigations to address this vulnerability by updating to the latest version of the HTML2WP plugin where the issue has been resolved. System administrators should also consider implementing additional protective measures such as restricting file upload capabilities at the web server level, implementing proper input validation, and monitoring for suspicious file upload activities. Network-level defenses including web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems can help detect and prevent exploitation attempts. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of validating and sanitizing all user inputs and implementing proper access controls, principles that align with the security best practices outlined in ISO/IEC 27001 and NIST cybersecurity frameworks.