CVE-2024-13091 in WPBot Pro Chatbot Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 01/22/2025
The WPBot Pro Wordpress Chatbot plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to arbitrary file uploads due to missing file type validation in the 'qcld_wpcfb_file_upload' function in all versions up to, and including, 13.5.4. This makes it possible for unauthenticated attackers to upload arbitrary files on the affected site's server which may make remote code execution possible. Note: The exploit requires thee ChatBot Conversational Forms plugin and the Conversational Form Builder Pro addon plugin.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/22/2025
The WPBot Pro WordPress Chatbot plugin presents a critical security vulnerability that stems from inadequate input validation mechanisms within its file upload functionality. This flaw exists in the qcld_wpcfb_file_upload function, which fails to properly validate file types during the upload process, creating an exploitable pathway for malicious actors to compromise affected WordPress installations. The vulnerability affects all versions up to and including 13.5.4, making it a widespread concern for WordPress administrators who have not yet updated their installations. The issue is particularly dangerous because it allows unauthenticated attackers to bypass normal security restrictions and upload potentially malicious files to the target server.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability demonstrates a classic lack of proper sanitization and validation practices that are fundamental to secure file handling in web applications. When the qcld_wpcfb_file_upload function processes file uploads, it does not verify the actual file type against a whitelist of allowed extensions or content types, nor does it perform proper MIME type checking. This omission creates a scenario where attackers can upload files with extensions such as .php, .jsp, or other executable formats that could be executed on the web server. The vulnerability operates at the application level, exploiting weaknesses in the plugin's file handling logic rather than targeting underlying system vulnerabilities.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple file upload capabilities and creates a potential pathway for remote code execution on compromised systems. While the exploit requires the additional ChatBot Conversational Forms plugin and Conversational Form Builder Pro addon plugin to function, the attack surface remains significant as these plugins are commonly installed in WordPress environments. Once an attacker successfully uploads a malicious file, they can potentially execute arbitrary code on the server, which may lead to complete system compromise, data exfiltration, or the establishment of persistent backdoors. The unauthenticated nature of the attack means that any visitor to the affected website could potentially exploit this vulnerability without requiring valid credentials.
Security professionals should recognize this vulnerability as a manifestation of CWE-434, which specifically addresses insecure file uploads and the lack of proper file type validation in web applications. The vulnerability also aligns with ATT&CK technique T1505.003, which describes the use of web shells and file upload capabilities for maintaining persistent access to compromised systems. Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including disabling the vulnerable plugin functionality, implementing proper file type validation at the application level, and conducting thorough security audits of all installed WordPress plugins. The recommended approach involves updating to the latest version of the WPBot Pro plugin where the vulnerability has been patched, along with implementing additional security measures such as web application firewalls and monitoring for suspicious file upload activities.