CVE-2022-29454 in Better Messages Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 07/20/2022
Cross-Site Request Forgery (CSRF) vulnerability in WordPlus Better Messages plugin <= 1.9.9.148 at WordPress allows attackers to upload files. File attachment to messages must be activated.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/15/2022
The CVE-2022-29454 vulnerability represents a critical cross-site request forgery flaw within the WordPlus Better Messages plugin for WordPress systems. This vulnerability affects versions up to and including 1.9.9.148, creating a significant security risk for WordPress installations that utilize this messaging plugin. The flaw specifically targets the file upload functionality within the plugin's message system, where attackers can exploit the missing or insufficient CSRF protection mechanisms to execute unauthorized file upload operations. The vulnerability requires that file attachment capabilities be enabled for messages within the plugin's configuration, making it a targeted threat that depends on specific plugin settings being active.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the absence of proper anti-CSRF tokens or validation mechanisms within the plugin's file upload endpoints. When users navigate to message interfaces that support file attachments, the plugin fails to validate the authenticity of requests originating from legitimate users versus malicious actors. This lack of request verification allows attackers to craft malicious requests that appear to come from authenticated users, enabling them to bypass normal security controls that would typically prevent unauthorized file uploads. The vulnerability operates at the application layer and specifically targets the WordPress plugin architecture, where the plugin's message handling components do not adequately verify the source and intent of file upload requests.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized file uploads, as it creates potential pathways for more severe attacks within the WordPress environment. Attackers could leverage this vulnerability to upload malicious files such as web shells, malware, or other harmful content that could compromise the entire WordPress installation. The consequences include potential full system compromise, data exfiltration, and the ability to establish persistent access points within the target environment. Additionally, the vulnerability could enable attackers to disrupt normal message functionality, cause denial of service conditions, or use the uploaded files as stepping stones for further attacks against the broader network infrastructure. This represents a significant threat to organizations that rely on WordPress for their web presence and messaging systems.
Organizations affected by this vulnerability should immediately implement mitigations including updating to the latest version of the WordPlus Better Messages plugin where available, implementing additional CSRF protection measures, and reviewing file upload restrictions within their WordPress installations. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-352, which specifically addresses Cross-Site Request Forgery, and demonstrates characteristics consistent with attack patterns found in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under the T1190 technique for Exploit Public-Facing Application. Security teams should also consider implementing web application firewalls, monitoring for suspicious file upload activities, and conducting thorough security assessments of all WordPress plugins to identify similar vulnerabilities. The remediation process must include verifying that all plugin components properly implement CSRF protection mechanisms and that file upload functionality includes appropriate validation and authentication checks to prevent unauthorized operations.