CVE-2024-13681 in Uncode Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 02/18/2025
The Uncode theme for WordPress is vulnerable to arbitrary file read due to insufficient input validation in the 'uncode_admin_get_oembed' function in all versions up to, and including, 2.9.1.6. This makes it possible for unauthenticated attackers to read arbitrary files on the server.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/21/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-13681 affects the Uncode theme for WordPress, specifically targeting versions up to and including 2.9.1.6. This represents a critical security flaw that stems from inadequate input validation within the 'uncode_admin_get_oembed' function, creating a pathway for unauthorized file access that could compromise entire server environments. The vulnerability exists within the theme's administrative functionality, where the function fails to properly sanitize user-supplied parameters, allowing malicious actors to manipulate input values and traverse the file system.
This arbitrary file read vulnerability falls under the CWE-22 category, which specifically addresses Improper Limitation of a Pathname to a Restricted Directory, commonly known as Path Traversal. The flaw enables attackers to bypass normal access controls and retrieve sensitive files from the server that should remain protected. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it does not require authentication, making it accessible to any attacker who can interact with the WordPress site. The 'uncode_admin_get_oembed' function appears to process oEmbed requests without adequate validation, allowing malicious input to be interpreted as file system commands rather than legitimate API parameters.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as attackers could potentially access configuration files, database credentials, user information, and other sensitive data that could lead to full system compromise. The vulnerability affects WordPress installations using the Uncode theme, which represents a significant portion of users who may be impacted by this flaw. Attackers could leverage this vulnerability to extract wp-config.php files containing database credentials, user authentication details, or other sensitive configuration information that would enable them to escalate privileges and gain unauthorized access to the entire WordPress installation.
From an attack perspective, this vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1213.002 which covers Data from Information Repositories, specifically targeting WordPress administrative interfaces. The lack of authentication requirements makes this vector particularly attractive to automated exploitation tools, as it requires no prior access or credentials to begin the attack process. The vulnerability's exploitation process typically involves crafting malicious oEmbed requests that include directory traversal sequences, allowing attackers to navigate to sensitive files on the server. This type of vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper input validation and the principle of least privilege in web application security.
The recommended mitigations for this vulnerability include immediate updating of the Uncode theme to version 2.9.1.7 or later, which contains the necessary patches to address the input validation flaw. Organizations should also implement network-level protections such as web application firewalls that can detect and block malicious oEmbed requests containing suspicious path traversal patterns. Additionally, administrators should conduct comprehensive security audits of their WordPress installations, reviewing file permissions and access controls to ensure that sensitive files remain protected. Regular security monitoring and vulnerability scanning should be implemented to identify similar flaws in other themes and plugins that may present similar attack vectors. The incident underscores the critical need for maintaining up-to-date software components and implementing robust security controls to prevent unauthorized access to sensitive system resources.