CVE-2023-47679 in Qi Addons For Elementor Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 05/17/2024
Improper Limitation of a Pathname to a Restricted Directory ('Path Traversal') vulnerability in QODE Interactive Qi Addons For Elementor allows PHP Local File Inclusion.This issue affects Qi Addons For Elementor: from n/a through 1.6.3.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/17/2024
The CVE-2023-47679 vulnerability represents a critical path traversal flaw within the QODE Interactive Qi Addons For Elementor plugin, which operates under the broader category of improper limitation of pathname to restricted directories. This weakness enables attackers to manipulate file paths and access unauthorized resources on the affected system. The vulnerability specifically manifests in the plugin's handling of user-supplied input that controls file inclusion operations, creating an opportunity for remote attackers to exploit the system through PHP local file inclusion techniques. The affected version range spans from the initial release through version 1.6.3, indicating a prolonged period during which systems could be compromised. This issue directly impacts WordPress environments where the plugin is installed, potentially allowing attackers to access sensitive files, execute arbitrary code, or escalate privileges within the application's context.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through the manipulation of file path parameters within the plugin's codebase, where user input is not properly sanitized or validated before being used in file operations. Attackers can construct malicious paths that bypass directory restrictions and traverse to sensitive system files, potentially including configuration files, database credentials, or other critical resources. The vulnerability falls under CWE-22, which specifically addresses improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, a well-documented weakness that has been exploited in numerous security incidents across various platforms. This weakness allows attackers to perform unauthorized file access operations, potentially leading to complete system compromise when combined with other exploitation techniques. The PHP local file inclusion aspect of the vulnerability means that the attacker can leverage the plugin's file inclusion mechanisms to execute arbitrary PHP code on the target server, creating a significant attack surface that could be leveraged for further compromise.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized file access, as it provides attackers with the capability to escalate privileges and potentially gain complete control over the affected WordPress installation. This weakness enables attackers to access not only the plugin's own files but also system files that should normally be restricted, potentially exposing database credentials, user information, or other sensitive data. The vulnerability creates a persistent threat vector that could be exploited by attackers with minimal technical expertise, as the path traversal mechanism is often straightforward to implement. Organizations running affected versions of the Qi Addons For Elementor plugin face significant risk of data breaches, system compromise, and potential regulatory violations due to the exposure of sensitive information. The impact is particularly severe in environments where the WordPress installation contains sensitive data or serves as a critical business application, as the vulnerability could be leveraged to access confidential information or disrupt business operations.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2023-47679 should prioritize immediate patching of the affected plugin to version 1.6.4 or later, which contains the necessary security fixes to prevent path traversal attacks. System administrators should also implement additional defensive measures including input validation and sanitization of all user-supplied data, particularly in file path operations. The implementation of proper access controls and directory restrictions can help prevent unauthorized file access even if the vulnerability is not immediately patched. Organizations should conduct comprehensive vulnerability assessments to identify any other potentially affected plugins or components within their WordPress installations. Security monitoring should be enhanced to detect suspicious file access patterns or attempts to exploit path traversal vulnerabilities, using intrusion detection systems and web application firewalls to provide additional layers of protection. Regular security audits and patch management processes should be strengthened to ensure that all WordPress plugins and themes are kept up-to-date with the latest security releases. This vulnerability also highlights the importance of following secure coding practices and implementing proper input validation techniques to prevent similar issues in future development cycles. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under privilege escalation and credential access techniques, emphasizing the need for layered security approaches that can detect and prevent exploitation attempts at multiple points within the attack chain.