CVE-2024-31230 in Adaptive Images Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 04/10/2024
Missing Authorization vulnerability in ShortPixel ShortPixel Adaptive Images shortpixel-adaptive-images.This issue affects ShortPixel Adaptive Images: from n/a through <= 3.8.2.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/01/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-31230 represents a critical missing authorization flaw within the ShortPixel Adaptive Images plugin for WordPress systems. This security weakness manifests as an insufficient access control mechanism that allows unauthorized users to perform actions they should not be permitted to execute. The vulnerability specifically impacts versions of the ShortPixel Adaptive Images plugin ranging from the initial release through version 3.8.2, creating a substantial attack surface for malicious actors who exploit this authorization gap. The issue stems from improper validation of user permissions during plugin operations, particularly when processing image optimization requests and configuration changes. Attackers can leverage this weakness to manipulate plugin functionality and potentially gain elevated privileges within the affected WordPress environment. The vulnerability's classification aligns with CWE-285, which addresses improper authorization in software systems, making it a significant concern for web application security. This weakness directly violates the principle of least privilege, where users should only have access to resources necessary for their specific roles.
The technical implementation of this missing authorization vulnerability occurs within the plugin's request handling mechanisms where authentication checks are either absent or inadequately enforced. When users interact with the ShortPixel Adaptive Images functionality, the system fails to properly verify whether the requesting user possesses the appropriate administrative rights or permissions required to execute specific operations. This flaw allows attackers to bypass normal access controls through manipulated API calls or direct URL access to plugin endpoints. The vulnerability can be exploited by unauthorized individuals who gain access to the WordPress administration interface or through indirect methods that leverage the plugin's functionality to perform unauthorized modifications. The attack vector typically involves sending specially crafted requests to the plugin's backend services without proper authorization verification, enabling execution of administrative functions that should be restricted to authorized administrators only. This weakness can be particularly dangerous in multi-user environments where different permission levels exist within the WordPress system.
The operational impact of CVE-2024-31230 extends beyond simple unauthorized access, potentially enabling attackers to compromise entire WordPress installations through the exploitation of this authorization gap. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability can modify image optimization settings, potentially disrupting website functionality or introducing malicious configurations. The weakness also provides opportunities for attackers to escalate privileges within the WordPress environment, as they may be able to access administrative functions that control core plugin operations and system configurations. Furthermore, this vulnerability can facilitate more sophisticated attacks by allowing unauthorized users to manipulate the plugin's image processing capabilities, potentially leading to data corruption or service disruption. The impact is particularly severe in environments where the plugin is used for critical image optimization tasks, as attackers could compromise the integrity of the website's media assets and overall user experience. The vulnerability also creates potential pathways for attackers to establish persistence within the affected systems, especially if they can manipulate plugin configurations to maintain access over time.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2024-31230 must address the core authorization flaw through immediate plugin updates to versions that resolve the missing authorization checks. System administrators should implement immediate patch management procedures to upgrade to the latest stable release of the ShortPixel Adaptive Images plugin that contains the necessary authorization fixes. Organizations should also review and tighten their WordPress user permission policies, ensuring that only trusted administrators have access to plugin management functions. Network-level monitoring should be implemented to detect suspicious API calls or unauthorized access attempts to the plugin's endpoints. Security teams should conduct thorough audits of all installed plugins to identify similar authorization weaknesses that may exist in other third-party components. The implementation of web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems can provide additional layers of protection against exploitation attempts. Regular security assessments and penetration testing should be performed to identify and remediate similar authorization vulnerabilities across the entire WordPress ecosystem. This vulnerability also highlights the importance of following security best practices such as implementing proper input validation, using secure coding practices, and maintaining up-to-date security configurations as outlined in industry standards including the OWASP Top Ten and NIST cybersecurity frameworks.