CVE-2023-3295 in Unlimited Elements for Elementor Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 06/17/2023
The Unlimited Elements For Elementor (Free Widgets, Addons, Templates) for WordPress is vulnerable to arbitrary file uploads due to missing file type validation of files in the file manager functionality in versions up to, and including, 1.5.66 . This makes it possible for authenticated attackers, with contributor-level permissions and above, to upload arbitrary files on the affected site's server which may make remote code execution possible. The issue was partially patched in version 1.5.66 and fully patched in 1.5.67
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/12/2024
The Unlimited Elements For Elementor plugin for WordPress represents a widely used collection of free widgets, addons, and templates that enhances the functionality of the popular page builder platform. This vulnerability affects versions up to and including 1.5.66, where the plugin fails to properly validate file types during the file management process. The flaw exists within the core file upload functionality that allows users to manage media and other files through the WordPress admin interface. Attackers exploiting this vulnerability can leverage the missing validation to upload malicious files, potentially compromising the entire WordPress installation.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation within the plugin's file manager component. When users with contributor-level permissions or higher attempt to upload files through the plugin's interface, the system does not properly verify the file extensions or MIME types against a whitelist of allowed formats. This oversight creates a pathway for attackers to bypass security measures that should prevent the upload of potentially dangerous file types such as php, aspx, or other executable scripts. The vulnerability specifically targets the plugin's handling of file uploads in the admin area, where the file manager functionality is exposed to authenticated users.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized file uploads, as it creates a potential pathway for remote code execution attacks. An authenticated attacker with contributor privileges can upload malicious files that, when executed by the web server, could allow for full system compromise. This vulnerability operates under the principle of privilege escalation within the WordPress ecosystem, where a lower-privileged user can leverage a flaw in a third-party plugin to gain elevated capabilities. The risk is particularly significant in environments where multiple users have contributor-level access or where the plugin is installed on shared hosting environments with limited security controls.
The vulnerability aligns with CWE-434, which describes "Unrestricted Upload of File with Dangerous Type" and represents a critical security gap in the plugin's file handling mechanisms. This weakness enables attackers to bypass standard security controls that typically prevent the upload of executable files through web interfaces. From an attacker's perspective, this vulnerability maps to techniques described in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under T1190 for "Exploit Public-Facing Application" and T1059 for "Command and Scripting Interpreter." The exploitation process typically involves uploading a web shell or malicious script that can be executed through the web server, potentially leading to complete system compromise. Organizations should note that while version 1.5.66 provided partial protection, full remediation required updating to version 1.5.67, indicating that the initial patch was incomplete and did not address all attack vectors. The patching process should be prioritized immediately, as the vulnerability provides attackers with a direct path to execute arbitrary code on the affected WordPress installation.