CVE-2023-33930 in Unlimited Elements Unlimited Elements for Elementor Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 06/04/2024
Unrestricted Upload of File with Dangerous Type vulnerability in Unlimited Elements Unlimited Elements For Elementor (Free Widgets, Addons, Templates) allows Code Injection.This issue affects Unlimited Elements For Elementor (Free Widgets, Addons, Templates): from n/a through 1.5.66.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/04/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2023-33930 represents a critical security flaw in the Unlimited Elements For Elementor plugin, specifically within the Free Widgets, Addons, Templates component. This issue manifests as an unrestricted file upload vulnerability that permits malicious actors to upload files with dangerous types, creating a significant vector for code injection attacks. The vulnerability exists in versions of the plugin ranging from the initial release through version 1.5.66, indicating a prolonged period during which systems using this plugin remained exposed to potential exploitation. The flaw fundamentally stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization mechanisms within the file upload functionality, allowing attackers to bypass security restrictions that should normally prevent the upload of executable or potentially harmful file types.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability enables attackers to upload malicious files such as php scripts, javascript payloads, or other dangerous file types that can execute code on the target system. When combined with the existing file upload functionality, this creates a direct pathway for remote code execution and privilege escalation. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-434, which specifically addresses unrestricted upload of files with dangerous types, and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190 for exploiting vulnerabilities in web applications. The flaw essentially removes the necessary checks that should validate file extensions, content types, and file signatures before allowing uploads to proceed, thereby creating an environment where attackers can deploy malicious payloads that persist on the server.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code injection, as it can lead to complete system compromise and unauthorized access to sensitive data. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to establish persistent backdoors, exfiltrate data, or use the compromised system as a launching point for further attacks within the network. The affected plugin's widespread use in WordPress environments means that numerous websites could be vulnerable simultaneously, creating a substantial attack surface for threat actors. Organizations using this plugin without proper mitigation measures face significant risk of unauthorized access, data breaches, and potential regulatory compliance violations, particularly in environments where data protection regulations are strictly enforced. The vulnerability's exploitation typically requires minimal technical expertise, making it attractive to both sophisticated and less experienced attackers.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2023-33930 should prioritize immediate remediation through plugin updates to versions that address the file upload validation issues. System administrators must implement comprehensive file upload restrictions including MIME type validation, file extension filtering, and content analysis to prevent dangerous file types from being processed. Additional protective measures include implementing web application firewalls to monitor and block suspicious upload attempts, restricting file upload permissions to specific user roles, and conducting regular security audits of uploaded content. Organizations should also consider implementing network segmentation and monitoring solutions to detect anomalous file upload activities. The vulnerability highlights the critical importance of proper input validation and the principle of least privilege in web application security, with ATT&CK framework guidance emphasizing the need for robust application-level defenses against file upload attacks. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be conducted to identify similar issues in other plugins and components of the WordPress ecosystem.