CVE-2024-2297 in Bricks Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 02/27/2025
The Bricks theme for WordPress is vulnerable to Privilege Escalation in all versions up to, and including, 1.9.6.1. This is due to insufficient validation checks placed on the create_autosave AJAX function. This makes it possible for authenticated attackers, with contributor-level access and above, to execute arbitrary PHP code with elevated (administrator-level) privileges. NOTE: Successful exploitation requires (1) the Bricks Builder to be enabled for posts (2) Builder access to be enabled for contributor-level users, and (3) "Code Execution" to be enabled for administrator-level users within the theme's settings.
Be aware that VulDB is the high quality source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/27/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-2297 affects the Bricks theme for WordPress, presenting a critical privilege escalation risk that can be exploited by authenticated attackers. This flaw exists in all versions up to and including 1.9.6.1, making it a widespread concern for WordPress installations using this theme. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation within the create_autosave AJAX function, which serves as a critical entry point for malicious activity. The security implications are particularly severe because the flaw allows attackers with contributor-level privileges to escalate their access to administrator-level permissions, bypassing normal WordPress security controls that typically prevent such privilege jumps.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability requires specific conditions to be met, creating a multi-layered attack vector that must be carefully orchestrated. First, the Bricks Builder functionality must be enabled for posts, which is typically a default setting in many installations. Second, builder access must be explicitly granted to contributor-level users, a configuration that many administrators may overlook during security reviews. Third, the "Code Execution" feature must be enabled for administrator-level users within the theme's settings, which represents a particularly dangerous configuration option. This dependency chain means that while the vulnerability exists in the code, successful exploitation requires multiple misconfigurations that would normally be flagged during security audits. The vulnerability maps directly to CWE-264, which addresses permissions, privileges, and access controls, specifically focusing on insufficient privilege checks in web applications.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it fundamentally undermines the security model of WordPress installations. When exploited, authenticated attackers can execute arbitrary PHP code with administrator privileges, effectively granting them complete control over the affected WordPress installation. This includes the ability to modify or delete content, install malicious plugins, modify user accounts, and potentially use the compromised site as a launching point for attacks on other systems within the network. The implications are particularly concerning for websites that host sensitive data or serve as part of larger network infrastructures, as the compromise of a single WordPress site could lead to broader security breaches. The attack surface is further expanded because the Bricks theme is commonly used across various website types, from small business sites to enterprise installations, making this vulnerability potentially widespread.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2024-2297 must address both immediate remediation and long-term security improvements. The most effective immediate solution is to upgrade to a patched version of the Bricks theme, which should be prioritized as a critical security update. Administrators should also review their security configurations to ensure that builder access is not granted to users below administrator level, particularly when the Bricks Builder is enabled for posts. The "Code Execution" setting within the theme's configuration should be carefully evaluated and disabled unless absolutely necessary for legitimate business operations. Additionally, implementing proper access control policies and regular security audits can help identify and remediate similar misconfigurations. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1078 which covers valid accounts and privilege escalation, demonstrating how insufficient validation can create pathways for attackers to leverage existing user permissions to achieve higher privileges. Organizations should also consider implementing network monitoring and intrusion detection systems to identify suspicious AJAX requests that might indicate exploitation attempts, as these requests often occur in patterns that can be detected through behavioral analysis.