CVE-2024-13638 in Order Attachments for WooCommerce Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 02/28/2025
The Order Attachments for WooCommerce plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to Sensitive Information Exposure in all versions up to, and including, 2.5.1 via the 'uploads' directory. This makes it possible for unauthenticated attackers to extract sensitive data stored insecurely in the /wp-content/uploads directory which can contain file attachments added to orders.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/28/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-13638 affects the Order Attachments for WooCommerce plugin, a widely used extension for WordPress e-commerce platforms. This security flaw resides within the plugin's handling of file uploads and access controls, specifically exposing the wp-content/uploads directory to unauthorized access. The vulnerability impacts all versions up to and including 2.5.1, representing a significant risk to online stores that rely on this plugin for managing order-related file attachments. The exposed directory structure creates a pathway for attackers to access sensitive data that should typically remain protected within the administrative boundaries of the e-commerce platform.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability stems from improper access control mechanisms within the plugin's file handling routines. When order attachments are processed through the WooCommerce platform, these files are stored in the standard WordPress uploads directory located at wp-content/uploads. However, the Order Attachments plugin fails to implement adequate authentication checks or access restrictions for this directory, allowing any unauthenticated user to traverse the file system and access stored attachments. This represents a critical failure in the principle of least privilege and proper access control implementation, as the vulnerability enables arbitrary file access to sensitive business data including customer documents, invoices, and order-related files that contain confidential information.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data exposure, creating potential risks for business continuity and regulatory compliance. Attackers can extract order attachments containing personal customer data, financial information, and business-sensitive documents that may include tax records, shipping information, and proprietary communications. The exposure of such data violates fundamental data protection principles and could lead to compliance violations under regulations such as gdpr, pci dss, and other privacy frameworks. The vulnerability essentially transforms the secure order management system into an open data repository, undermining the trust customers place in the platform's security measures and potentially exposing businesses to legal and financial consequences.
Organizations affected by this vulnerability should immediately implement mitigations including updating to the latest version of the Order Attachments plugin where the issue has been resolved through proper access control implementation. System administrators should also consider implementing additional protective measures such as restricting access to the uploads directory through web server configuration, implementing file access logging, and conducting comprehensive audits of stored order attachments. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-200, which addresses improper exposure of sensitive information, and represents a clear violation of ATT&CK technique T1566, specifically focusing on credential access through unauthorized file access. Immediate remediation is essential to prevent potential data breaches and maintain compliance with industry security standards while protecting customer privacy and business integrity.