CVE-2022-4101 in Images Optimize and Upload CF7 Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 01/16/2023
The Images Optimize and Upload CF7 WordPress plugin through 2.1.4 does not validate the file to be deleted via an AJAX action available to unauthenticated users, which could allow them to delete arbitrary files on the server via path traversal attack.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/05/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2022-4101 affects the Images Optimize and Upload CF7 WordPress plugin version 2.1.4 and earlier, presenting a critical path traversal flaw that compromises server security. This vulnerability exists within the plugin's AJAX functionality, which is designed to handle file operations but fails to implement proper validation mechanisms for file deletion requests. The issue stems from the plugin's lack of input sanitization and authorization checks, allowing unauthenticated attackers to exploit this weakness and execute arbitrary file deletion operations on the target server.
The technical flaw manifests through the plugin's exposure of an AJAX action endpoint that accepts file paths for deletion without proper validation or authentication requirements. This path traversal vulnerability enables attackers to manipulate file paths and navigate beyond the intended directories, potentially accessing and deleting sensitive files including configuration files, database credentials, or even core WordPress components. The vulnerability operates under CWE-22 which classifies path traversal attacks as a fundamental security weakness, where insufficient input validation allows attackers to manipulate file system access through directory traversal sequences.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability creates significant risks for WordPress installations using the affected plugin, as it allows attackers to perform remote arbitrary file deletion without requiring authentication credentials. The attack surface extends beyond simple file removal to potentially compromise entire server operations, as attackers could target critical system files, plugin configurations, or user data. This weakness aligns with ATT&CK technique T1485 which covers data destruction and system file deletion, potentially leading to complete system compromise or service disruption.
The exploitation of this vulnerability requires minimal privileges and can be executed through simple HTTP requests that manipulate the AJAX endpoint parameters. Attackers can leverage this flaw to systematically target and delete files, potentially causing service outages, data loss, or creating backdoor access points. The vulnerability's severity is amplified by the fact that it affects unauthenticated users, meaning any visitor to the WordPress site could potentially exploit this weakness without prior access credentials. Organizations should immediately implement mitigations including plugin updates, input validation enforcement, and network-level restrictions to prevent exploitation of this critical path traversal vulnerability.
Mitigation strategies should include immediate patching of the affected plugin to version 2.1.5 or later, which addresses the input validation deficiencies. Additionally, administrators should implement proper file access controls, restrict AJAX endpoint access through web application firewalls, and conduct comprehensive security audits of all installed plugins. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper input validation and authentication requirements in web applications, particularly those handling file system operations. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be implemented to identify similar weaknesses in other plugins or custom code implementations.