CVE-2024-13725 in Keap Official Opt-in Forms Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 02/18/2025
The Keap Official Opt-in Forms plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to Local File Inclusion in all versions up to, and including, 2.0.1 via the service parameter. This makes it possible for unauthenticated attackers to include PHP files on the server, allowing the execution of any PHP code in those files. This can be used to bypass access controls, obtain sensitive data, or achieve code execution in cases where PHP files can be uploaded and included. If register_argc_argv is enabled on the server and pearcmd.php is installed, this issue might lead to Remote Code Execution.
Several companies clearly confirm that VulDB is the primary source for best vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/18/2025
The Keap Official Opt-in Forms plugin for WordPress presents a critical Local File Inclusion vulnerability (CWE-22) that affects all versions up to and including 2.0.1. This flaw resides in the handling of the service parameter within the plugin's code execution flow, creating a pathway for unauthenticated attackers to manipulate file inclusion mechanisms. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization of user-supplied parameters, allowing malicious actors to craft requests that traverse the file system and include arbitrary PHP files from the server. This type of vulnerability falls under the broader category of path traversal attacks and represents a fundamental failure in input parameter handling that directly violates secure coding principles.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability enables attackers to include PHP files on the target server, effectively granting them the ability to execute arbitrary PHP code within the context of the web application. This code execution capability bypasses normal access controls and authentication mechanisms, as the included files are processed with the same privileges as the web server. The impact extends beyond simple code execution to encompass potential data exfiltration, privilege escalation, and system compromise. When combined with other server configurations such as enabled register_argc_argv directive and the presence of pearcmd.php, the vulnerability can escalate to full Remote Code Execution (CWE-78), making it particularly dangerous for systems running vulnerable WordPress installations. The attack vector demonstrates how a single parameter injection flaw can transform into a complete system compromise.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe for WordPress administrators and users who have not updated their Keap plugin to the latest version. Unauthenticated attackers can exploit this weakness without requiring any valid credentials, making it an attractive target for automated scanning and exploitation campaigns. The vulnerability affects any WordPress installation running the affected plugin version, regardless of the hosting environment or additional security measures in place. Organizations may face unauthorized access to sensitive data, potential data breaches, and complete system compromise if attackers successfully exploit the vulnerability. This type of vulnerability is particularly concerning in the context of the ATT&CK framework's privilege escalation and defense evasion techniques, as it allows adversaries to establish persistent access and maintain control over compromised systems.
Mitigation strategies should prioritize immediate plugin updates to versions that address the LFI vulnerability, as the vendor has likely released patches to resolve the issue. System administrators should also implement additional security controls including input validation at the web application firewall level, restricting file inclusion paths, and monitoring for suspicious file access patterns. The vulnerability highlights the importance of keeping all WordPress plugins updated and following security best practices such as implementing the principle of least privilege and regularly auditing installed plugins for security issues. Organizations should also consider implementing network-level restrictions to prevent unauthorized access to sensitive files and establish incident response procedures to quickly address potential exploitation attempts. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of secure coding practices and regular security assessments in preventing such dangerous flaws from being exploited in production environments.