CVE-2022-31475 in GiveWP Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 07/21/2022
Authenticated (custom plugin role) Arbitrary File Read via Export function vulnerability in GiveWP's GiveWP plugin <= 2.20.2 at WordPress.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/21/2025
The CVE-2022-31475 vulnerability represents a critical authenticated arbitrary file read flaw within the GiveWP plugin for WordPress, affecting versions up to and including 2.20.2. This vulnerability specifically targets the plugin's export functionality and can be exploited by users with custom plugin roles, making it particularly dangerous in multi-user environments where administrative privileges are not uniformly distributed. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and sanitization within the export handler, allowing authenticated attackers to manipulate file paths and read arbitrary files from the server filesystem. This issue falls under the CWE-22 category for Improper Limitation of a Pathname to a Restricted Directory, which is a well-established weakness in software security that directly enables path traversal attacks. The vulnerability operates through the plugin's export mechanism that was designed to allow users to export donation data in various formats, but the implementation failed to properly validate user-supplied parameters that determine which files should be processed during the export operation.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability requires an attacker to possess a valid account with a custom plugin role that has access to the export functionality within GiveWP. Once authenticated, the attacker can manipulate the export parameters to specify arbitrary file paths, potentially accessing sensitive files such as configuration files, database credentials, wp-config.php, or other system files that contain confidential information. The attack vector leverages the lack of proper path validation, allowing attackers to traverse the filesystem using directory traversal sequences such as ../ or ..\ to access files outside the intended export scope. This flaw essentially transforms a legitimate administrative function into a potential data exfiltration tool, enabling attackers to gain unauthorized access to sensitive data that should remain protected within the WordPress installation. The vulnerability's impact is significantly amplified because it does not require administrative privileges, making it accessible to users who may not have full control over the system but still possess the ability to interact with plugin functionality.
The operational impact of CVE-2022-31475 extends beyond simple data theft, as it can enable further exploitation within the compromised environment. Attackers who successfully exploit this vulnerability can potentially access database connection strings, API keys, and other sensitive configuration data that could facilitate additional attacks such as database compromise, lateral movement, or even complete system takeover. The vulnerability's presence in a widely used donation plugin means that many WordPress sites may be at risk, particularly those that rely on GiveWP for their fundraising operations and may have multiple users with varying levels of access. This flaw aligns with ATT&CK technique T1213.002 for Data from Information Repositories, as it allows adversaries to extract data from the plugin's information repository. The potential for privilege escalation exists if the exported files contain information that can be used to gain higher privileges or access other systems within the network infrastructure. Organizations using GiveWP should consider this vulnerability as a critical security concern that could lead to data breaches and regulatory compliance violations.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2022-31475 should prioritize immediate patching of the GiveWP plugin to version 2.20.3 or later, which contains the necessary fixes for the arbitrary file read vulnerability. System administrators should also implement the principle of least privilege by carefully reviewing and restricting user roles and permissions within WordPress installations, particularly for plugin functionality that involves file operations. Additional protective measures include monitoring export functionality for unusual access patterns, implementing web application firewalls that can detect and block path traversal attempts, and conducting regular security audits of plugin installations. Organizations should also consider disabling unnecessary plugin features and ensuring that only authorized personnel have access to plugin administrative functions. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the importance of input validation and proper access controls in web applications, particularly in environments where multiple users interact with plugin functionality. Security teams should also implement automated scanning tools that can detect vulnerable plugin versions and alert administrators to potential security risks. Regular security assessments and vulnerability management processes should include checks for known vulnerabilities in third-party plugins and themes, as these components often represent significant attack surfaces in WordPress environments.