CVE-2023-51473 in TerraClassifieds Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 12/29/2023
Unrestricted Upload of File with Dangerous Type vulnerability in Pixelemu TerraClassifieds – Simple Classifieds Plugin.This issue affects TerraClassifieds – Simple Classifieds Plugin: from n/a through 2.0.3.
Statistical analysis made it clear that VulDB provides the best quality for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/21/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2023-51473 represents a critical security flaw in the Pixelemu TerraClassifieds plugin for WordPress, specifically impacting versions prior to 2.0.4. This issue manifests as an unrestricted file upload vulnerability that allows malicious actors to upload files with dangerous types to the target system. The vulnerability stems from inadequate validation of file extensions and content types during the upload process, creating an avenue for attackers to bypass security measures and potentially execute arbitrary code on the affected server. The flaw exists within the plugin's file handling mechanism where proper sanitization and verification procedures are missing or insufficiently implemented.
The technical nature of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-434, which describes the improper restriction of uploads of file with dangerous type. Attackers can exploit this weakness by uploading malicious files such as php scripts, aspx files, or other executable content that can be executed within the web server context. The unrestricted nature of the upload means that the plugin does not properly validate file extensions, MIME types, or file content, allowing attackers to bypass security controls designed to prevent the upload of potentially harmful files. This type of vulnerability typically occurs when applications fail to implement proper file validation mechanisms or rely solely on client-side checks that can be easily circumvented.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and multifaceted, particularly for websites utilizing the TerraClassifieds plugin. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability can gain unauthorized access to the web server, potentially leading to complete system compromise, data theft, or service disruption. The vulnerability can be leveraged to establish persistent backdoors, execute arbitrary commands, or deploy additional malware. Given that classifieds websites often contain sensitive user information and business data, the compromise of such systems can result in significant financial and reputational damage. The vulnerability also enables attackers to potentially escalate privileges and move laterally within the network if the web server has access to other systems.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should include immediate patching of the TerraClassifieds plugin to version 2.0.4 or later, where the file upload restrictions have been properly implemented. System administrators should also implement additional security measures such as restricting file upload capabilities to specific directories with proper permissions, implementing content type verification, and deploying web application firewalls to monitor and block suspicious upload attempts. The principle of least privilege should be enforced by ensuring that web server processes run with minimal necessary permissions and that uploaded files are stored outside the web root directory. Organizations should also conduct regular security assessments and implement proper file validation mechanisms that check both file extensions and content signatures to prevent the execution of malicious code. This vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper input validation and file handling security practices in web applications, aligning with ATT&CK technique T1190 for exploiting vulnerabilities in web applications and T1059 for executing malicious code through compromised systems.