CVE-2024-37249 in Advanced Custom Fields Pro Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 11/01/2024
Missing Authorization vulnerability in WPEngine Inc. Advanced Custom Fields PRO allows Exploiting Incorrectly Configured Access Control Security Levels.This issue affects Advanced Custom Fields PRO: from n/a through 6.3.1.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/01/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-37249 represents a critical missing authorization flaw within the Advanced Custom Fields PRO plugin developed by WPEngine Inc. This security weakness manifests as an incorrectly configured access control security level that permits unauthorized users to exploit functionality that should be restricted to authorized personnel only. The affected version range spans from unspecified initial versions through 6.3.1, indicating a prolonged period during which this vulnerability remained unaddressed. The issue specifically impacts the plugin's access control mechanisms, creating a scenario where users without proper credentials or permissions can potentially access restricted administrative features or data that should be protected.
This vulnerability falls under the CWE-285 category of Incorrect Authorization, which is classified as a fundamental access control weakness in software systems. The flaw operates by failing to properly validate user permissions before granting access to sensitive administrative functions within the WordPress environment. When an attacker exploits this condition, they can bypass the intended authorization checks that normally would prevent unauthorized individuals from performing administrative tasks or accessing protected content within the custom fields management interface. The vulnerability essentially creates a backdoor pathway through which malicious actors can gain elevated privileges or access restricted functionality without proper authentication.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized access to encompass potential data breaches, system compromise, and complete administrative control of affected WordPress installations. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability could manipulate custom field configurations, modify content, access sensitive data, or potentially escalate their privileges further within the compromised system. The affected environment becomes vulnerable to various attack vectors including but not limited to data exfiltration, content manipulation, and establishment of persistent access points. This weakness particularly affects WordPress sites using the Advanced Custom Fields PRO plugin, making it a significant concern for organizations relying on this popular content management tool for their web presence.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2024-37249 should prioritize immediate plugin updates to versions that address the authorization flaw, as this represents the most direct solution to the vulnerability. Organizations should also implement additional security measures including regular access control audits, monitoring for unauthorized administrative activities, and ensuring that only necessary users have access to the affected plugin features. Network segmentation and web application firewalls can provide additional layers of protection by monitoring and controlling access attempts to the vulnerable endpoints. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this type of vulnerability under privilege escalation and credential access techniques, making it particularly dangerous when combined with other attack vectors. Security teams should conduct comprehensive vulnerability assessments to identify any potential exploitation attempts and ensure that proper access control policies are enforced throughout the WordPress environment. Regular security updates and patch management processes should be reinforced to prevent similar authorization failures in other components of the system.