CVE-2024-1069 in Contact Form Entries Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 01/31/2024
The Contact Form Entries plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to arbitrary file uploads due to insufficient file validation on the 'view_page' function in versions up to, and including, 1.3.2. This makes it possible for authenticated attackers with administrator-level capabilities or above, 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 • 05/30/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-1069 affects the Contact Form Entries plugin for WordPress, specifically targeting versions up to and including 1.3.2. This represents a critical security flaw that stems from inadequate input validation mechanisms within the plugin's codebase. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it exists within the 'view_page' function, which serves as a critical entry point for file handling operations within the plugin's functionality. The flaw allows for arbitrary file upload capabilities that can be exploited by malicious actors who have already gained administrative access to a WordPress site. This vulnerability demonstrates a fundamental failure in the plugin's security architecture and highlights the importance of proper file validation and sanitization in web applications.
The technical nature of this vulnerability places it squarely within the realm of CWE-434, which specifically addresses "Unrestricted Upload of File with Dangerous Type." The flaw occurs because the plugin fails to properly validate file extensions and content types when processing uploads through the view_page function. Attackers with administrator-level privileges can leverage this weakness to upload malicious files such as php shells, web shells, or other executable content that can be subsequently executed on the web server. The vulnerability essentially creates a backdoor that allows for persistent access to the compromised system and can serve as a launching point for further attacks within the network infrastructure. The authentication requirement for exploitation means that attackers must already have administrative credentials, but this does not diminish the severity of the impact once achieved.
The operational impact of CVE-2024-1069 extends far beyond simple data compromise, as it provides attackers with the capability to achieve remote code execution on the affected WordPress server. This allows for complete system compromise, data exfiltration, and potential lateral movement within the network. The vulnerability can be exploited to install additional malware, modify existing files, create new user accounts, or establish persistent access through backdoors. Organizations running vulnerable versions of the Contact Form Entries plugin face significant risk of unauthorized access, data breaches, and potential regulatory compliance violations. The vulnerability also creates opportunities for attackers to use the compromised server as a platform for launching attacks against other systems, making it a particularly dangerous flaw in enterprise environments. The presence of this vulnerability in widely used plugins like Contact Form Entries means that numerous WordPress installations across various industries could be at risk.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2024-1069 should include immediate plugin updates to the latest version that contains the necessary security patches. Organizations must also implement additional security measures such as restricting file upload capabilities, implementing proper file type validation, and monitoring for suspicious file uploads. The use of web application firewalls and security monitoring tools can help detect and prevent exploitation attempts. Regular security audits and vulnerability assessments should be conducted to identify similar flaws in other plugins and themes. System administrators should also consider implementing principle of least privilege access controls and regularly review user permissions to minimize the potential impact of credential compromise. This vulnerability underscores the critical importance of keeping all WordPress plugins and themes up to date, as well as following security best practices such as those outlined in the OWASP Top Ten and NIST cybersecurity guidelines. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this type of vulnerability under T1190 - Exploit Public-Facing Application, highlighting the need for proper application hardening and regular security maintenance to prevent such exploitation scenarios.