CVE-2023-51475 in WP MLM Software Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 12/29/2023
Unrestricted Upload of File with Dangerous Type vulnerability in IOSS WP MLM SOFTWARE PLUGIN.This issue affects WP MLM SOFTWARE PLUGIN: from n/a through 4.0.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/21/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2023-51475 represents a critical security flaw in the IOSS WP MLM SOFTWARE PLUGIN, specifically within the file upload functionality that permits unrestricted uploads of files with potentially dangerous types. This issue exists in versions ranging from the initial release through version 4.0, indicating a prolonged period during which the plugin remained susceptible to exploitation. The vulnerability stems from inadequate validation and sanitization of file uploads, allowing attackers to bypass security measures that should prevent the upload of executable or malicious files. This flaw directly violates fundamental security principles governing input validation and file handling within web applications.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability lies in the plugin's failure to properly validate file extensions, MIME types, or file contents before storing uploaded files on the server. Attackers can exploit this weakness by uploading malicious files such as php, asp, or other script files that could be executed on the web server. The unrestricted nature of the upload mechanism means that no proper checks are performed to ensure that uploaded files conform to safe file types or contain malicious code. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-434, which specifically addresses the insecure upload of files with dangerous types, and represents a classic example of insufficient input validation and sanitization. The flaw enables attackers to potentially execute arbitrary code on the target system, leading to complete compromise of the affected server.
The operational impact of CVE-2023-51475 extends far beyond simple data theft or modification. Once an attacker successfully uploads malicious files, they gain the ability to execute arbitrary commands on the server, potentially leading to full system compromise. This vulnerability can be exploited to establish persistent backdoors, deploy malware, or launch further attacks against network infrastructure. The implications are particularly severe in WordPress environments where plugins often have elevated privileges and access to sensitive data. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to perform privilege escalation, gain unauthorized access to user accounts, or even use the compromised system as a launchpad for attacking other systems within the network. The vulnerability also enables potential data exfiltration and can be used to establish command and control channels for botnet activities.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2023-51475 require immediate action to address the root cause of the vulnerability. The primary recommendation involves implementing strict file type validation that checks both file extensions and MIME types against a whitelist of approved file formats. The plugin should enforce server-side validation of uploaded files, including content inspection to ensure files match their claimed types. Organizations should also implement proper file storage practices by storing uploaded files outside the web root directory and ensuring appropriate file permissions are set. Additionally, regular security audits and code reviews should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other components of the WordPress ecosystem. The remediation process should include updating to the latest version of the plugin where this vulnerability has been patched, and implementing network-level controls such as web application firewalls to detect and prevent malicious upload attempts. This vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of following secure coding practices and adheres to ATT&CK technique T1195.001 which involves uploading malicious files to gain access to systems, making it essential for organizations to maintain robust security controls and regular patch management processes to prevent exploitation.