CVE-2024-1089 in ImageRecycle PDF & Image Compression Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 02/29/2024
The ImageRecycle pdf & image compression plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to unauthorized modification of data due to a missing capability check on the optimizeAllOn function in all versions up to, and including, 3.1.13. This makes it possible for authenticated attackers, with subscriber-level access and above, to modify image optimization settings.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/27/2024
The ImageRecycle pdf & image compression plugin for WordPress presents a critical security vulnerability through its failure to implement proper capability checks within the optimizeAllOn function. This flaw exists in all versions up to and including 3.1.13, creating an unauthorized data modification pathway that directly violates fundamental web application security principles. The vulnerability specifically targets the plugin's administrative functionality, where legitimate users with subscriber-level privileges or higher can exploit this weakness to manipulate image optimization configurations without proper authorization.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the absence of capability validation within the optimizeAllOn function, which should require administrator-level permissions to execute. According to CWE-863, this represents a failure to check permissions, allowing attackers to bypass intended access controls. The flaw enables authenticated attackers to modify critical system parameters through what should be restricted administrative functions, creating potential for both operational disruption and security compromise. This misconfiguration allows users with minimal privileges to perform actions typically restricted to administrators, fundamentally undermining the principle of least privilege.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple configuration changes, as image optimization settings directly influence website performance, storage utilization, and potentially content delivery. Attackers could manipulate optimization parameters to degrade site performance, increase resource consumption, or even create conditions that facilitate further attacks. The vulnerability creates a persistent threat vector that remains active as long as the affected plugin version is installed, with no automated detection mechanisms available. This makes it particularly dangerous in environments where multiple users have varying access levels, as the compromise could occur without immediate detection.
Mitigation strategies must address both immediate remediation and long-term security posture improvements. The primary solution involves updating to a patched version of the ImageRecycle plugin where proper capability checks have been implemented. Organizations should conduct comprehensive audits of all installed WordPress plugins to identify similar permission-related vulnerabilities. Security hardening practices should include regular plugin updates, implementation of role-based access controls, and monitoring for unauthorized configuration changes. From an ATT&CK framework perspective, this vulnerability maps to T1078 Valid Accounts and T1566 Phishing, as it allows attackers to leverage existing user accounts to escalate privileges and modify system configurations without requiring additional credential compromise.