CVE-2024-37228 in Connect Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 06/24/2024
Unrestricted Upload of File with Dangerous Type vulnerability in InstaWP InstaWP Connect instawp-connect.This issue affects InstaWP Connect: from n/a through <= 0.1.0.38.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/02/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-37228 represents a critical security flaw in the InstaWP Connect plugin version 0.1.0.38 and earlier, classified as an unrestricted file upload vulnerability with dangerous type. This issue falls under the CWE-434 category, which specifically addresses unrestricted upload of file with dangerous type, making it particularly dangerous for web applications that process user-uploaded content. The vulnerability allows attackers to upload malicious files that can execute arbitrary code on the target system, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The affected component is the InstaWP Connect plugin, which is designed to facilitate WordPress site management and deployment operations, making it a prime target for attackers seeking to gain unauthorized access to WordPress installations.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization within the file upload mechanism of the InstaWP Connect plugin. When users attempt to upload files through the plugin interface, the application fails to properly validate file extensions, MIME types, or file contents against a comprehensive whitelist of allowed file types. This oversight enables attackers to upload files with potentially malicious extensions such as .php, .jsp, .asp, or other server-side include files that can execute code on the web server. The vulnerability exists because the plugin does not enforce proper file type restrictions or implement secure file handling procedures that would prevent the execution of uploaded content. The issue is particularly concerning as it affects a plugin that operates with elevated privileges during WordPress site management operations, potentially allowing attackers to execute commands with the same permissions as the web server.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, encompassing a broad range of potential attacks that can severely compromise WordPress installations. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to upload web shells, backdoors, or other malicious payloads that enable persistent access to compromised systems. The vulnerability also creates opportunities for attackers to escalate privileges, modify or exfiltrate sensitive data, and establish command and control channels. In the context of WordPress environments, this can lead to complete site takeover, data breaches, and the potential for attackers to use compromised sites as launching points for further attacks against other systems within the network. The vulnerability affects the integrity and availability of WordPress installations, as attackers can not only execute code but also potentially corrupt or destroy data. Additionally, the compromised systems may be used for hosting malicious content, sending spam emails, or participating in distributed denial-of-service attacks, making the impact far-reaching beyond the immediate system compromise.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2024-37228 should focus on immediate remediation through plugin updates and implementation of comprehensive security controls. Organizations should prioritize updating to the latest version of InstaWP Connect where the vulnerability has been addressed, typically through enhanced file validation and sanitization mechanisms. Security measures should include implementing strict file type validation, employing MIME type checking, and utilizing secure file storage practices that separate uploaded files from executable code. The principle of least privilege should be enforced by restricting file upload capabilities to only authorized users and implementing proper access controls. Network-level protections such as web application firewalls should be configured to monitor and block suspicious file upload attempts. Additionally, organizations should implement regular security audits of uploaded content and maintain comprehensive monitoring systems that can detect anomalous file upload activities. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this type of vulnerability under T1190 - Exploit Public-Facing Application, highlighting the importance of securing all public-facing application components and implementing defense-in-depth strategies that include both network-level and application-level protections to prevent exploitation of such vulnerabilities.