CVE-2024-1468 in Avada Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 02/29/2024
The Avada | Website Builder For WordPress & WooCommerce theme for WordPress is vulnerable to arbitrary file uploads due to missing file type validation in the ajax_import_options() function in all versions up to, and including, 7.11.4. This makes it possible for authenticated attackers, with contributor-level access and above, to upload arbitrary files on the affected site's server which may make remote code execution possible.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/12/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-1468 affects the Avada theme for WordPress, a widely used website builder that supports both WordPress and WooCommerce platforms. This theme has been found to contain a critical security flaw in its ajax_import_options() function that exists across all versions up to and including 7.11.4. The issue stems from inadequate validation of file types during the upload process, creating a significant security risk for WordPress installations that utilize this theme. The vulnerability specifically targets authenticated users who possess contributor-level access or higher permissions within the WordPress environment, making it particularly concerning as it can be exploited by users who already have some level of administrative privileges.
The technical flaw manifests in the absence of proper file type validation mechanisms within the ajax_import_options() function, which is designed to handle import operations for theme options. This function fails to properly verify the MIME types or file extensions of uploaded files, allowing attackers to bypass normal security restrictions. The lack of validation creates a pathway for malicious file uploads that could include web shells, malicious scripts, or other potentially harmful content. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-434, which deals with Unrestricted Upload of File with Dangerous Type, and represents a classic case of insufficient input validation that enables attackers to execute arbitrary code on the target server. The flaw operates at the application layer and can be exploited through the WordPress administrative interface where the theme's import functionality is accessible.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized file uploads, as it creates a potential pathway for remote code execution on the affected WordPress servers. An attacker with contributor-level access or higher can leverage this vulnerability to upload malicious files that could be executed by the web server, potentially leading to complete compromise of the WordPress installation. This risk is particularly severe because contributors typically have the ability to create and edit posts, upload media files, and perform other administrative tasks within the WordPress environment. The vulnerability can be exploited to establish persistent backdoors, exfiltrate sensitive data, or use the compromised server for further attacks against other systems. This aligns with ATT&CK technique T1505.003 for Server Software Component and represents a privilege escalation vector that can be exploited in conjunction with other attack vectors to gain broader system access.
Organizations using the affected Avada theme version 7.11.4 or earlier should immediately implement mitigations to protect their WordPress installations from exploitation. The primary recommendation is to update to the latest version of the Avada theme where this vulnerability has been addressed through proper file type validation and input sanitization. Additionally, administrators should consider implementing additional security measures such as restricting file upload capabilities for lower-privilege users, implementing web application firewalls to monitor and filter suspicious file upload attempts, and conducting regular security audits of uploaded files. Network-level protections such as restricting access to the WordPress admin interface and implementing proper user access controls can also help mitigate the risk. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper input validation and file type checking in web applications, particularly those that handle user-uploaded content, and serves as a reminder of the potential consequences of inadequate security controls in content management systems.