CVE-2023-6316 in MW WP Form Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 01/11/2024
The MW WP Form plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to arbitrary file uploads due to insufficient file type validation in the '_single_file_upload' function in versions up to, and including, 5.0.1. This makes it possible for unauthenticated attackers to upload arbitrary files on the affected site's server which may make remote code execution possible.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/11/2026
The MW WP Form plugin represents a widely used WordPress extension that facilitates form creation and management for website administrators. This particular vulnerability affects versions up to and including 5.0.1, creating a critical security gap that exposes WordPress installations to significant risks. The flaw resides within the '_single_file_upload' function which handles file upload operations, demonstrating a fundamental failure in input validation and sanitization practices. Attackers can exploit this weakness without requiring authentication credentials, making the vulnerability particularly dangerous as it can be leveraged by anyone with access to the affected website.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate file type validation mechanisms within the plugin's upload functionality. The '_single_file_upload' function fails to properly verify file extensions, MIME types, or file contents before processing uploads, allowing malicious actors to bypass security checks through crafted file names or content. This validation failure creates a pathway for attackers to upload files with potentially dangerous extensions such as .php, .asp, or other server-side script formats. The vulnerability directly maps to CWE-434 which describes insecure file upload vulnerabilities where applications accept files without proper validation, enabling attackers to upload malicious content that can be executed on the server.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple file upload capabilities, as it creates opportunities for remote code execution attacks. When unauthenticated attackers successfully upload malicious files, they can potentially execute arbitrary code on the compromised server, leading to full system compromise. This vulnerability allows attackers to gain persistent access to the affected WordPress installation, potentially enabling them to modify website content, steal sensitive data, or use the compromised server for further attacks. The implications are particularly severe given that the vulnerability affects a plugin that is commonly installed across numerous WordPress sites, increasing the potential attack surface and attack volume.
Organizations should immediately implement mitigation strategies to address this vulnerability, beginning with updating to the latest version of the MW WP Form plugin where the issue has been resolved. System administrators should also consider implementing additional security layers such as file type whitelisting, mandatory file content verification, and web application firewalls to prevent exploitation attempts. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under T1190 - Exploit Public-Facing Application, highlighting the importance of proper input validation and the need for comprehensive security monitoring. Regular security audits and vulnerability assessments should be conducted to identify similar weaknesses in other plugins or themes, as this vulnerability represents a common pattern of insecure file handling practices that can be exploited across various web applications.