CVE-2023-1809 in Download Manager Pro Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 05/02/2023
The Download Manager WordPress plugin before 6.3.0 leaks master key information without the need for a password, allowing attackers to download arbitrary password-protected package files.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/30/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2023-1809 affects the Download Manager WordPress plugin version 6.3.0 and earlier, presenting a critical security flaw that undermines the integrity of protected content distribution. This issue stems from improper access control mechanisms within the plugin's architecture, specifically allowing unauthenticated attackers to bypass password protection measures for package files. The vulnerability exists due to the plugin's failure to properly validate user authentication status when accessing protected resources, creating a pathway for malicious actors to obtain sensitive files without proper authorization.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves a flaw in the plugin's authentication handling process where master key information is exposed through insecure API endpoints or direct file access mechanisms. Attackers can exploit this weakness by crafting specific requests that leverage the leaked master key to access password-protected packages that should otherwise require authentication. This represents a classic case of insufficient authorization checks and improper credential management, aligning with CWE-285 which addresses insufficient authorization issues in software systems. The vulnerability essentially creates a backdoor mechanism that allows unauthorized access to protected content through the exposure of cryptographic keys or authentication tokens that should remain secret.
The operational impact of CVE-2023-1809 extends beyond simple data leakage, as it enables attackers to potentially access confidential information, proprietary software packages, or restricted resources that organizations rely on for their digital operations. This vulnerability particularly affects WordPress installations where the Download Manager plugin is used to distribute protected content such as software updates, premium themes, or restricted documentation. The implications include potential intellectual property theft, unauthorized access to sensitive business information, and disruption of legitimate content distribution processes. Organizations may experience reputational damage and regulatory compliance issues when protected content is compromised through this vulnerability, as it violates data protection principles and security best practices.
Security mitigations for this vulnerability require immediate plugin updates to version 6.3.0 or later, which contain the necessary patches to address the authentication bypass issue. System administrators should also implement additional monitoring measures to detect unusual access patterns or unauthorized download attempts that might indicate exploitation of this vulnerability. Network-level protections such as web application firewalls and access control lists can provide additional defense-in-depth measures to prevent exploitation. The remediation process should include thorough security auditing of all WordPress installations using the Download Manager plugin, along with verification that the updated version properly implements authentication controls. Organizations should also consider implementing role-based access controls and regular security assessments to prevent similar vulnerabilities from emerging in other components of their WordPress infrastructure, aligning with ATT&CK technique T1078 which addresses valid accounts and credential access in cybersecurity frameworks.