CVE-2024-33568 in Element Pack Pro Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 06/04/2024
Improper Limitation of a Pathname to a Restricted Directory ('Path Traversal'), Deserialization of Untrusted Data vulnerability in BdThemes Element Pack Pro allows Path Traversal, Object Injection.This issue affects Element Pack Pro: from n/a through 7.7.4.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/04/2024
This vulnerability represents a critical path traversal flaw that enables attackers to access files outside the intended directory boundaries through improper limitation of pathname inputs. The issue manifests in BdThemes Element Pack Pro plugin where user-supplied data is not adequately validated or sanitized before being used in file system operations. This weakness allows malicious actors to manipulate file paths and potentially access sensitive system files, configuration data, or other restricted resources that should remain protected from unauthorized access. The vulnerability specifically impacts versions from the initial release through 7.7.4, indicating a persistent flaw that has not yet been fully addressed in the affected software lineage.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from deserialization of untrusted data without proper input validation mechanisms. When the plugin processes user-provided parameters that are subsequently used in file path construction, it fails to implement adequate restrictions on directory traversal sequences such as ../ or ..\ that would normally be blocked by proper security controls. This deserialization process creates an attack surface where malicious input can be interpreted as legitimate file operations, enabling attackers to navigate beyond the intended directory structure and potentially execute arbitrary file operations. The flaw aligns with CWE-22 Path Traversal and CWE-502 Deserialization of Untrusted Data, representing a combination of both weaknesses that amplifies the attack potential.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple file access and can enable more sophisticated attacks including remote code execution, data exfiltration, and system compromise. An attacker could leverage this path traversal capability to access WordPress configuration files, database credentials, user information, or even upload malicious files that could lead to full system compromise. The vulnerability affects the core functionality of the Element Pack Pro plugin and potentially exposes all websites using affected versions to these risks. This represents a significant threat to WordPress installations where the plugin is deployed, as path traversal vulnerabilities often serve as entry points for broader exploitation campaigns and can be combined with other weaknesses to achieve more severe outcomes.
Security mitigations for this vulnerability should focus on implementing strict input validation and sanitization for all file path operations. The plugin should enforce proper path normalization and ensure that all user-supplied data undergoes rigorous validation before being used in file system operations. Organizations should immediately upgrade to the latest available version of Element Pack Pro that addresses this vulnerability, as the affected versions through 7.7.4 remain exposed to attack. Additionally, implementing web application firewalls with path traversal detection capabilities, restricting file system permissions for WordPress installations, and conducting regular security audits of plugin installations can help reduce the risk exposure. This vulnerability also aligns with ATT&CK technique T1078 Valid Accounts and T1566 Phishing, as attackers may use path traversal to escalate privileges or gain access to additional system resources that can be leveraged for further compromise.