CVE-2024-4098 in Shariff Wrapper Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 06/20/2024
The Shariff Wrapper plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to Local File Inclusion in versions up to, and including, 4.6.13 via the shariff3uu_fetch_sharecounts function. This allows unauthenticated attackers to include and execute arbitrary files on the server, allowing the execution of any PHP code in those files. This can be used to bypass access controls, obtain sensitive data, or achieve code execution in cases where images and other “safe” file types can be uploaded and included.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/20/2024
The Shariff Wrapper plugin for WordPress presents a critical local file inclusion vulnerability that affects versions up to and including 4.6.13. This vulnerability resides within the shariff3uu_fetch_sharecounts function which processes user-supplied input without proper validation or sanitization. The flaw enables unauthenticated attackers to manipulate the file inclusion mechanism and execute arbitrary PHP code on the affected server. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation that allows malicious file paths to be passed directly to file inclusion functions, creating a pathway for remote code execution. This represents a fundamental breakdown in the plugin's security architecture where user-controllable data is not properly filtered before being used in file operations.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker crafts malicious input that gets processed by the vulnerable shariff3uu_fetch_sharecounts function. The function likely accepts a parameter that specifies a file path or URL, which is then passed to a file inclusion mechanism such as include(), require(), or similar PHP functions. When the input contains malicious file paths or URLs, the server attempts to include and execute the specified files, allowing attackers to run arbitrary PHP code. This vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it can be exploited without authentication, meaning any user can potentially trigger the vulnerability. The impact extends beyond simple code execution to include data exfiltration, privilege escalation, and complete system compromise. The vulnerability can be leveraged to bypass access controls, as demonstrated by the ability to include files that might contain sensitive data or administrative functions.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe for WordPress installations using the affected plugin versions. Attackers can utilize this flaw to gain unauthorized access to server resources, potentially leading to full system compromise and data breaches. The vulnerability's exploitation can result in the execution of malicious code that may install backdoors, steal sensitive information, or manipulate the website's functionality. Additionally, the ability to include and execute arbitrary PHP code allows attackers to perform various malicious activities including data exfiltration, privilege escalation, and persistent access to the compromised system. The vulnerability can be particularly damaging when combined with other weaknesses in the WordPress installation, as it provides a direct pathway for attackers to bypass existing security measures and gain elevated privileges. This vulnerability affects not only the immediate website but also potentially the entire hosting environment if proper isolation measures are not in place.
Organizations should immediately update the Shariff Wrapper plugin to version 4.6.14 or later to remediate this vulnerability. The update addresses the input validation issues in the shariff3uu_fetch_sharecounts function by implementing proper sanitization and validation of user-supplied input. System administrators should also implement additional security measures including web application firewalls, input validation at multiple layers, and monitoring for suspicious file inclusion patterns. Regular security audits and vulnerability assessments should be conducted to identify similar issues in other plugins and themes. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-22 - Improper Limitation of a Pathname to a Restricted Directory and CWE-94 - Improper Control of Generation of Code, which are commonly exploited in web application attacks. From an ATT&CK perspective, this vulnerability maps to T1059.007 - Command and Scripting Interpreter: Python, T1078 - Valid Accounts, and T1566.001 - Phishing: Spearphishing Attachment, as attackers can use the vulnerability to establish persistent access and execute malicious payloads. Organizations should also consider implementing principle of least privilege access controls, regular security patching, and comprehensive monitoring to detect and prevent exploitation attempts.